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    Barcelona 0 Chelsea 1: Spanish giants beaten at home for first time in FIVE YEARS in epic Women’s Champions League clash

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    ERIN CUTHBERT says Emma Hayes sometimes brings out the animal in her on the pitch.Today the Chelsea captain and the Blues roared their way to a 1-0 Champions League semis first-leg win beating Barcelona in their backyard – the Spanish giants’ first competitive home defeat for FIVE years.Erin Cuthbert fired her Chelsea side to victory in the first leg of their Women’s Champions League semi-finalCredit: ReutersCuthbert curled a sweet strike into the top cornerCredit: ReutersA narrow but vital first-leg victory puts them a little bit closer to the chance of reaching the final for the second time in their history.And it is one that could potentially see them avenge their 2-1 semis loss on aggregate to the Catalan side last year and the 4-0 final trouncing they endured in 2021.Having lifted the Champions League trophy twice in the last three years, the Spanish league leaders were the favourites coming into this game played at the famous Lluis Companys Stadium.However, Hayes’ aces had other ideas. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt was a nervy start with Caroline Graham Hansen firing a shot straight at Hannah Hampton in the eighth minute.But the visitors grew into the game.Chelsea had just one first-half shot on target against their hosts who dominated possession early on.They made it count in the 40th minute, though.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERCuthbert shimmied on the edge of the area then fired in a stunning top-corner finish after Sjoeke Nusken outsmarted markers to deliver.There were a few moments of penalty drama in the second half.Watch fuming Pochettino shout at journalist as press conference descends into chaos after Chelsea’s win over EvertonFirst through Barcelona seeing a penalty kick ruled out following the ball striking Kadeisha Buchanan’s arm because Salma Paralluelo was offside.Then when Mayra Ramirez, who was a menace against Barca’s defence, got kicked by Irene Paredes in the box.The Colombian striker had a glorious chance to double Chelsea’s lead with 16 minutes of normal time left before blazing over after being closely tracked in the box.And Paraluello volleyed wide from six yards in the 86th minute before Alexia Putellas fired off target at close range in injury time with the Blues clinching a monumental win.Barcelona were unbeaten at home for five yearsCredit: AFPChelsea had to settle for being dominated in possessionCredit: GettyBarcelona’s penalty was overturned due to an offsideCredit: EPAChelsea will take a slender advantage back to Stamford BridgeCredit: Reuters More

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      ‘Each game matters so much’, says Kadeisha Buchanan ahead of Chelsea’s Champions League battle with Barcelona

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      LIFTING a Women’s Champions League trophy in Chelsea’s famous blue shirt would be Kadeisha Buchanan’s “all moment”.The Canada centre-back, 28, has had plenty of experience of winning the top club prize for Europe’s elite women’s football sides.Kadeisha Buchanan and Chelsea will take on Barcelona away in the first leg of their Champions League semi-finalCredit: GettyThe WSL leaders hope to reach the contest’s final for a second time under manager Emma HayesCredit: EPABuchanan hopes to go all the way in the Champions League with Chelsea just as she did with former club LyonCredit: GettyWith French giants Lyon, whom she left two years ago in June for the Blues, Buchanan has triumphed in the competition on five separate occasions.Her old side currently hold the record for the most trophy wins in the tournament’s 23-year history, having won it eight times previously.The highly coveted prize remains the only major honour to elude Chelsea who, under boss Emma Hayes, have won more WSL titles than any English side.Buchanan, who netted in the Blues’ 3-0 Wednesday night defeat of Aston Villa, said: “That’s what I came here for. Read More Football Stories”To win a Champions League in the blue shirt. That would be my ‘all’ moment.”It’s exciting but you have to take it one game at a time.”I think we’re doing a great job doing that, just focusing on each game and each game being like a championship because at the end of the day it is.”Each game matters so much and you just focus on one step at a time.Most read in FootballWith an FA Cup semis loss to Manchester United ending Chelsea dreams of a silverware triple this term, hopes of a double rest with their Champions League and WSL title hunt.Today Buchanan and her team-mates will begin the formidable task of attempting to knock out two-time winners Barcelona over two legs in this year’s semis.The Catalan juggernauts – unbeaten in Spain’s top tier with 22 wins in 23 games and 102 goals – have been a nemesis for the English league leaders in recent years.The team defeated Hayes’s side 4-0 in their first Champions League final foray three years ago.However, their last four knockout of Chelsea last April was a much tighter affair scoreline-wise.A 2-1 win on aggregate sealed their progress to a June final where they battled from 2-0 down to beat Wolfsburg 3-2.The second half of this season, and Hayes’s last before her reign as USA Women’s boss starts, has seen Chelsea battle for silverware with some key players absent.Long-term injuries have sidelined strikers Sam Kerr and Mia Fischel with both recovering from anterior cruciate ligament ruptures.But  team have been given a fitness boost with Hayes confirming Lauren James and centre-back and skipper Millie Bright as available for selection. Forward James, currently second highest goal scorer in the WSL this term, missed her team’s win against Villa on Wednesday due to injury. And Bright returned to training following a five-month absence with a knee concern. Buchanan believes the depth and calibre of Chelsea’s squad will be key to their push for trophies, including a seventh WSL title, in the final weeks of the season.The defender, who has made 14 WSL and European appearances this term, added: “We always have that confidence and belief that whoever is out on the field is well capable of getting the job done.Chelsea have been boosted by captain Millie Bright’s return to training ahead of their clash with BarcelonaCredit: Getty”Even if they didn’t play three, four games or even if they didn’t start five or 10 games, when they’re out on the field, you trust them to get the job done.”I feel that as for myself as well, if you don’t always start, that doesn’t matter. READ MORE SUN STORIES”You can still just go play football and get the job done just like any other player.”Barcelona vs Chelsea will be streamed live on DAZN’s Women’s Champions League channel on YouTube at 12:30pm More

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      England Lionesses star hints at future career change as she shows off talent as a tattoo artist

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      ENGLAND Lioness Georgia Stanway has hinted at a future career change after showing off her talent as a tattoo artist.The attacking midfielder, 25, is one of her country’s top stars.Georgia Stanway could have a future career as a tattoo artistThe England ace is an aspiring inkerCredit: RexShe was overjoyed to deliver her first tattoo to someoneStanway scored twice as England won Euro 2022 and also helped them reached last year’s World Cup final.Having starred for Blackburn Rovers and Manchester City, she now plies her trade for German giants Bayern Munich.Stanway has 14 goals in 51 games since joining them nearly two years ago.However, the fan favourite has indicated she could eventually make a career change.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAppearing on BBC Sport’s Out Of Office, budding tattoo artist Stanway was given the chance to do her first inking on another person.She was all smiles as she drew a broken vase on someone’s leg.And Stanway proved she has the skills to become a tattoo artist when she eventually gives up football.The ace revealed all on Instagram, captioning the snap: “Never have I experienced SO many emotions!”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERFans were certainly impressed by Stanway’s skills.One said: “So, when are you taking appointments?”Paula Raynor became England’s youngest goal scorer aged 15 in the 1971 Women’s World CupGeorge was praised online for her skillsShe drew a broken vase on the person’s legAnother declared: “If you need to practice I’m here.”One noted: “Is there anything you can’t do? Looks so good.”Another added: “Well done, looks amazing.”Georgia Stanway’s career statsThose numbers in full:

      Blackburn, 2014-2015: 6 games, 7 goals

      Man City, 2015-2022: 172 games, 59 goals

      Bayern Munich, 2022-2024: 61 games, 14 goals

      England, 2018-2024: 63 games, 17 goals

      Trophies: Super League, FA Cup x3, League Cup x3 (Man City); Bundesliga (Bayern Munich); Euro 2022, Finalissima, SheBelieves Cup, Arnold Clark Cup x2 (England) More

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      Women’s football club to pay for ‘mentally broken’ injured star’s surgery after she outed them with GoFundMe page

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      TOP FOOTBALL COMMENTATOR Jacqui Oatley led calls to help a “mentally broken” footballer after she suffered a career-threatening injury.Kayleigh McDonald, 30, sustained an injury when she was forced off late into a Women’s National League North game between Stoke and Burnley on March 24.Kayleigh McDonald, left, has set up a GoFundMe page after sustaining an ACL injuryCredit: GettyShe revealed she could not afford the £20,000 bill for it after being told she must go on the NHS waiting list for surgeryCredit: GettyTwo-and-a-half weeks after a scan for the injury, McDonald was diagnosed with a ruptured LCL before also discovering she had a high grade 3 injury to her ACL, ruptured her IT Band, ruptured her popliteus tendon and fractured her knee.However, she was forced to go on the NHS waiting list for surgery that costs a whopping £20,000. This saw McDonald open a GoFundMe page in an effort to try and raise the money. A statement on the page said: “So sad to say that just when I thought the women’s game was finally getting somewhere, I receive the worst news that I will have to join the NHS waiting list for surgery after a injury I sustained playing a league game for my club.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I’m now in my 4th week post injury with nothing in place. I’m having to pay to see a private consultant (which is very expensive), in hope that my knee can get looked at and operated on in a more timely manner. “I have suffered more mentally than physically with this injury, especially the fact it’s going to inevitably end my football career.”Because, at the end of the day, what’s the point? When you get injured like this in the women’s game, you’re left to deal with it all on your own with no support. It affects my day to day living and my livelihood.”Broadcaster Oatley took to social media to raise awareness of McDonalds’ plight, saying: “@Kayleigh_Mcxis not entitled to PFA support/membership as she’s never played WSL football. Most read in Football”So a full-time female international player in the Championship can’t pick up the phone to the PFA for help, yet male ex-pros can still be supported many years after retiring.”The plea came out on the same day StokeOnTrent live reported a huge cash injection into the club for infrastructure projects by the Coates family who own the club.Documents published on Companies House on Monday show a £12million injection being allotted to Stoke City Holdings Ltd. The Coates family are reported to be worth almost £9billion.Oatley added in response: “Not a great look for @stokecity.”In a statement Stoke has told SunSport they will be “meeting the cost of Kayleigh’s treatment”.McDonald’s GoFundMe plea continued: “I’m currently off work, not able to walk, not earning any money but still having the burden of paying my bills. Just to see a consultant it’s over a month waiting time. “I spoke to a girl who’s also injured her ACL and she won’t be getting surgery until November. I won’t be able to live financially. “This has been such a difficult time for me and something I’m really struggling with. Abnormal ACL injuries in women’s footballThe response to the high level of ACL injuries in women’s football was slammed as “slow and disparate
      The Women and Equalities Committee (WEC) called for better female-specific clothing after it was revealed that unsuitable boots were a contributing factor to the freak levels of the injuries.
      A statement said: “A health issue of similar magnitude affecting elite male footballers would have received a faster, more thorough, and better co-ordinated response.
      “While female footballers in the UK have enjoyed great success at club and national level, they have done so wearing ill-fitting footwear.
      “Few football boots designed for women are available, and those that do exist are rarely stocked or promoted by the UK’s leading high street sports retailers.”
      England women stars such as Leah Williamson and Beth Mead have been recent sufferers of ACL injuries.

      “I’m embarrassed to have to resort to setting up a go fund me in order to pay for my operation, as I have been left with no other choice.”McDonalds former club Blackburn Rovers also threw their support behind her, saying: “We are wishing ex-Rovers defender, Kayleigh McDonald, all the best on her road to recovery.”Kayleigh departed the club at the end of the 22/23 season as a fan favourite.”She added: “I need this operation to get back to working and earning a living. “People know how fitness helps you mentally and at the moment I’m really struggling and it is so difficult to see the light at the end of this horrible dark tunnel.”So I’m asking please, whether you’re a fan of football or a player, as a footballing community or just anyone can you help just by sharing my post even if you can’t afford to put any money in, just help in other ways for me to be able to get my surgery and my life back on track. READ MORE SUN STORIES”The surgery needed is a lot as I have such a complex injury and the cost is £20,000. “One thing this has taught me is that during the darkest days of my life, who are truly there for me and care for me. Without the support system I have I’d hate to think of the place I’d be at.” More

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      Emma Hayes reacts to Chelsea ace Lauren James unfollowing Lionesses team-mates after Women’s FA Cup semi-final

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      EMMA HAYES has not spoken to Lauren James regarding the Chelsea forward supposedly unfollowed two England team-mates on social media.Hayes addressed a question concerning an incident that occurred during her team’s FA Cup semis loss to Manchester United.Emma Hayes says she has not any conversations concerning Instagram posts with Lauren James following an incident during Chelsea’s FA Cup loss to Man UtdCredit: ReutersBlues forward James is claimed to have unfollowed some of her Lionesses team-mates on social media after Millie Turner sharing a picture of them both tussling for a ballCredit: GettyThe image was among of pictures of United’s win shared by Turner on Instagram and the social media platform XThe picture of James grappling for the ball with Turner was taken after she pulled a goal back against United during Chelsea’s FA Cup semi-final loss to the teamCredit: GettyOn Sunday the Red Devils battled their way to the contest’s final for the second year in a row by beating Chelsea.They clinched a hardfought 2-1 win against last year’s cup winners.After the Manchester side took a 2-0 lead, James a pulled goal back against her old club moments before half-time.The forward, who was eager to resume play as swiftly as possible, got into a tussle for the ball with United’s Millie Turner.Read More Football StoriesIt resulted in the Chelsea ace, 22, appearing to put the centre-back in a headlock with the duo being separated minutes later.Following Man Utd’s win Turner took to Instagram posting a few images from the match. These included a picture of the incident alongside a caption which read ‘KAMMOONNNN’.The image was also in featured in an Instagram story post shared by the player, which included the words ‘See you at Wembley my reds’.Most read in FootballA few of Turner’s Lionesses and Man Utd team-mates liked or shared remarks on Turner’s post which appeared to make light of that moment in the game.And eagle-eyed fans following players’ Instagram accounts claimed James has unfollowed the defender as well her fellow England team-mates Ella Toone and Mary Earps.Turner’s inclusion of the image of her and James vying for the ball prompted online debate between fans with some criticising the post.Ahead of Chelsea’s WSL duel with Aston Villa, Hayes was asked for her thoughts with James having been a target online abuse on social media in the past.The Blues chief, 47, whose side host Villa on Wednesday evening, said: “We don’t look at Instagram. She doesn’t have it, so I don’t know.“I haven’t had the conversation about Instagram with her. We haven’t talked about it.”A victory for Chelsea would see them returning to winning ways and go level on points with leaders Manchester City before their Saturday duel with Barcelona in the Champions League semis.The team are targeting a double trophy win with five games left until the end of the Women’s Super League season.Hayes added: “I want the players to enjoy themselves.Chelsea’s players trained with hailstones raining down on them on Tuesday ahead of a WSL clash with Aston VillaCredit: Getty“I want them to play without feeling like they have a point to prove to anyone.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I see them every day and what they do every day.“I want them to remind our fans once again why they’re a fantastic group of people that try their very best in a Chelsea shirt to try and win games.” More

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      Chloe Kelly looks stunning in bikini on break from football as fans say England Lionesses star is ‘irresistible’

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      CHLOE KELLY left fans stunned as she stripped down to a bikini on holiday.The England Lionesses striker looked incredible as she soaked up the sun in Marrakesh, Morocco.Chloe Kelly stunned in a stripey bikini and sunglassesCredit: instagram @chloekellyThe Lionesses striker enjoyed a break before the end of season-run inCredit: instagram @chloekellyKelly enjoyed a break in MoroccoCredit: instagram @chloekellyKelly scored the winning goal in the Euros final over GermanyCredit: GettyGetting so much-needed rest before the end of season run-in, Kelly relaxed in a swimming pool in front of a stunning desert backdrop.The 2022 Euros final hero showed off her figure in a stripey bikini and stylish sunglasses.She laid on the edge of the pool and was all smiles before taking a dip in the water.Kelly uploaded the snaps to Instagram, captioning the post: “An amazing week away. Rested and ready to get back at it.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd her adoring 851,000 followers were left in awe, with one commenting: “Most gorgeous.”Another added: “Irresistible.”A third said: “What an icon.”And more reacted: “My future wife.”Most read in FootballBut Kelly has already been snapped up by now fiance Scott Moore after a stunning proposal in front of the Northern Lights.The beauty is no stranger to wowing fans, recently catching the eye in an elegant outfit at the Brit Awards.England Lionesses star Chloe Kelly leaves little to imagination in daring outfit and branded ‘unreal’ at Glamour awardsAnd while dazzling in a see-through dress at another red carpet event.Kelly, who has scored eight goals this season, is hoping to fire Manchester City to Women’s Super League glory.They have just two matches to go and are three points ahead of Chelsea, who have a game in hand.Chloe Kelly often stuns in tight bikinisCredit: instagram @chloekellyThe beauty loves soaking up the sunCredit: Instagram @chloekellyKelly leaves her 850,000 followers besottedCredit: Instagram / @chloekellyKelly has been called ‘irresistible’ by fansCredit: instagram @chloekellyThe blonde bombshell can fire Man City to the WSL titleCredit: Instagram/@chloekelly More

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      Former Tottenham skipper Jenna Schillaci says Spurs can become one of the best teams in the country

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      FOR Jenna Schillaci playing in a Tottenham women’s football side once seemed an impossible dream.Today the retired former Spurs defender hopes the team can fulfil their dream of reaching a Women’s FA Cup final by beating Leicester.Jenna Schillaci believes Tottenham have the capability to challenge for the biggest honours in the women’s domestic gameCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe team will battle Leicester City for a place in this year’s Women’s FA Cup finalCredit: PALike Tottenham the Foxes are competing in a Women’s FA Cup semi-final for the first time in their historyCredit: GettyA feat that would be a new milestone for the Women’s Super League side who have come a long way from the part-time club Schillaci joined 24 years ago.Back then the team, whose players included nurses and teachers, used to train on a North London council estate and competed at an amateur level.Reflecting on those days Schillaci, 40, who played for Tottenham for 12 years and once captained side, said: “My family are Spurs mad.“My earliest memories are going down to White Hart Lane every other Saturday with my two brothers and just dreaming of one day playing as part of a team.Read More Football Stories“But back then, it wasn’t even really a dream because I never saw women’s football. “It wasn’t visible for me, so it was like an impossible dream.“When I used to go and watch the men’s (team), I would read the (matchday) programme before the game.“I once saw a really tiny section about a women’s team, which I didn’t know existed, but I couldn’t join it until I was 16 years old.Most read in Football“I showed my dad and my mum and told them, ‘As soon as I’m 16, you’ve got to take me down there’ and they did that.“They used to train on a Wednesday night on an estate in Tottenham and it was the last slot of the night from 9:00pm until 10:00pm, a bit late for a 16-year-old to be out.“But I remember just turning up and absolutely, living my dream there. “I would be running rings around the players. I was the youngest by about 15 years because it was a women’s team.“For the warm-ups I recall jogging around the estate. “I’m sure my mum used to follow us in her car, just to make sure we got around safely.“But this was a dream come true and I couldn’t believe my luck that I was playing for Tottenham. “And you’d play anywhere from muddy grassroots pitches to Hackney Marshes on a Sunday afternoon.”Today’s FA Cup semis clash between Spurs and Leicester will be battled out at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.A stark contrast to the muddy pitches Schillaci and her old team-mates once competed on during the early stages of her playing career at the club.Following the completion of a physical education degree at Greenwich University and stints at Queen Park Rangers, and Enfield Town, Schillaci returned to playing for the side in 2009.She went on skipper the team, that once competed in the Greater London Women’s Football League, helping them rise up the pyramid to promotion to the WSL in 2019.Since Schillaci’s retirement in June 2020, Spurs achieved their highest ever top-flight finish in fifth spot two years ago before avoiding relegation and finishing ninth last term.  This season has seen them flourish under boss Robert Vilahamn who took charge of the side last July, four months after the sacking of former manager Rehanne Skinner.Under the Sweden-born head coach the team have achieved some new firsts.These include beating Arsenal in a WSL derby and reaching the FA Cup semis for their first time in their history by defeating Manchester City. And Schillaci expects the team will eventually challenge City and WSL giants Chelsea and Arsenal for the game’s biggest domestic honours.She adds: “They had a tough season last year in a relegation battle and they survived that.“When you look back at it from then to now it’s like a million miles apart. “You’ve only got a look at the calibre of players at the club.“You’ve got Bethany England, a Euros winner, a young Lioness in Grace Clinton, Celin Bizet and Charlie Grant.Schillaci believes Tottenham’s recruitment strategy, including signing Grace Clinton on loan from Man United, has reaped rewards for the team this seasonCredit: Getty“They’re really investing in the recruitment and they’re also going for younger players now and you can see the strategy.“It’s incredible to see the rise and it’s down to a lot of people. It’s a really exciting time for the team.”The infrastructure that they have there now and have had over the last couple of seasons, is probably one of the best in the country.“And you’re seeing it this season with the team competing with the best.”I think in a short period of time, they will become one of the best teams in the country.”Four years after hanging up her boots Schillaci now works as operations manager in Tottenham Women’s Academy.Among the players who have risen through ranks and could feature against Leicester today is England Under-23s starlet Jessica Naz.The Spurs forward, 23, who has made 17 WSL appearances this term, helped the Young Lionesses to go unbeaten in the Under-23s European League.Schillaci said: “Jess is a key example of one of our own, a local girl has been with us through our pathway, doing well on an international stage.“I remember when she joined the club when she was 15 or 16. READ MORE SUN STORIES”She was a team-mate of mine for three or four seasons. She was a nightmare to defend (against) in training.“For her to be there competing every day with world class players (in Tottenham’s first team) I think it’s pushing her on and her future is so bright.”Schillaci has high hopes for Jessica Naz with the forward impressing for Tottenham this termCredit: Getty More

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      Girls under-14s football team triumph in all-boys grassroots league

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      A GIRLS under-14s football team have triumphed in an otherwise all-boys grassroots league.Unbeaten Concord Rangers Yellows have 31 points from 11 games this season.Concord Rangers Girls boss and dad Sofien Davis is hoping for one more victory in their final game on Saturday to secure their invincible statusCredit: SuppliedThey finished mid-table in their first campaign — but have been trouncing their male rivals this season with two 13-0s and a 14-2 in their ten league wins.Boss and dad Sofien Davis is hoping for one more victory in their final game on Saturday to secure their invincible status.He said: “From the day I took over, I could see the potential.“They picked things up easily. I was impressed how coachable they were. READ MORE ON WOMEN’S FOOTBALL”It was scary entering a boys league but was best for their development. I wanted to make the world realise girls can compete with boys.”Striker Lola Christmas, 12, is top scorer with 35 goals.Stepdad Tony Bailey, 35, said: “It started with taking her over to the park for a kickaround, and now she’s excelling.“The girls are now looking to represent Southend at the Aces National Tournament after reaching the semis last year.”Most read in FootballThe girls will move from the Southend Junior League to the Essex Girls League next season.Tony says he and Lola’s mum Jade Yates are immensely proud of all the players. He added: “When I was a youngster playing, you would have been livid losing against a team of girls.“But now there’s no hard feelings from the boys — they can see that it’s normal.”Official trailer for Copa 71 – the story of the Lost Lionesses and the forgotten 1971 women’s World Cup More

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      England Women’s star RETIRES from international football at 32 after 84 caps for the Lionesses

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      ENGLAND star Rachel Daly has announced her retirement from international football.Daly, 32, made her final appearance for the Lionesses during Tuesday’s Euro 2025 qualifier against Ireland.Rachel Daly has announced her retirement from international footballCredit: GettyRachel Daly helped England to glory at Euro 2022Credit: GettyShe also played a crucial role in England’s journey to the World Cup finalCredit: ReutersShe was introduced as a substitute to replace Alessia Russo in the 86th minute of the match.Daly announced her decision to step down from the national team with a heartfelt statement on Wednesday morning.It read: “I would love nothing more than to play for England forever, but the time has come for me to hang my boots up on the international stage.”While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it is also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been the greatest honour.Read More on Football”During my eight years as a Lioness, I’ve always pursued success and winning football matches, while playing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.”It has been the greatest honour to represent my family, my teammates and the entire country. I have a lot of incredible memories during my time with England that have been pivotal moments.”Winning the Euros and then reaching the World Cup Final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person. I’m so fortunate that I’ve been able to share that with so many remarkable people throughout my journey.”I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to wear the England badge with immense pride over the past eight years.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”I am very fortunate to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel now is the right time to pass on that baton to the next generation and be England’s number one fan from the stands!”I am excited to keep working hard at club level to reach new highs and spend some much needed quality time with my loved ones! Thank you.”Devastated Lionesses collapse in tears on the pitch as bid to make Women’s World Cup history falls agonisingly shortRachel Daly’s retirement statement in full

      “I would love nothing more than to play for England forever, but the time has come for me to hang my boots up on the international stage.
      “While today is an extremely difficult day for me, it is also one filled with reflection and immense gratitude. Playing for and representing England has been the greatest honour.
      “During my eight years as a Lioness, I’ve always pursued success and winning football matches, while playing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance.
      “It has been the greatest honour to represent my family, my teammates and the entire country. I have a lot of incredible memories during my time with England that have been pivotal moments.
      “Winning the Euros and then reaching the World Cup Final changed a lot for me, not only as a footballer but as a person. I’m so fortunate that I’ve been able to share that with so many remarkable people throughout my journey.
      “I have made special friendships that will last a lifetime. I will be eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to wear the England badge with immense pride over the past eight years.
      “I am very fortunate to have played a small part in making history with the Lionesses and I feel now is the right time to pass on that baton to the next generation and be England’s number one fan from the stands!
      “I am excited to keep working hard at club level to reach new highs and spend some much needed quality time with my loved ones! Thank you.”

      Daly has earned 84 England caps since her first senior call-up in 2016.She was also a part of the squad that won Euro 2022 at Wembley two years ago.And she remained a crucial member of Sarina Wiegman’s starting line-up throughout last summer’s World Cup, when the Lionesses narrowly missed out on the trophy following a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final.Discussing Daly’s retirement, England manager Wiegman said: “Rachel has been an incredible part of our story and the history we’ve made together. It has been a privilege to work with her.”I have never worked with a player so versatile, always with a smile on her face, bringing energy and trying to do her best for the team.”Off the pitch she is always up for a joke or a nice conversation. She’ll be missed not just by me but all the other staff members, players and of course the fans.”It is sad that she won’t be with us anymore, but we should celebrate what she has done for the team and now she becomes our No.1 fan. I would love to see her in the stands in future cheering for us and helping us to get some more wins.”Despite retiring from international football, Daly is set to continue with Aston Villa.The striker, who can also play as a full-back, joined the Women’s Super League side from Houston Dash in 2022.She received the WSL Golden Boot at the end of the 2022-23 campaign and was named PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year.However, with Aston Villa struggling in the league, she has struggled to reach the same heights this season.READ MORE SUN STORIESDaly has also played for Leeds United, Lincoln Ladies, Los Angeles Strikers, LA Blues and SoCal FC.And she represented Team GB at the 2021 Olympic Games in Tokyo.Daly’s career honours
      Individual:

      NWSL Second XI (2018, 2021)
      NWSL Challenge Cup MVP (2020)
      NWSL Challenge Cup Best XI (2020)
      NWSL Challenge Cup Golden Boot (2020)
      PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year (2022-23)
      PFA WSL Team of the Year (2022-23)
      WSL Player of the Season (2022-23)
      WSL Golden Boot (2022-23)

      England:

      FIFA Women’s World Cup runner-up (2023)
      UEFA Women’s European Championship winner (2022)
      Women’s Finalissima winner (2023)
      She Believes Cup winner (2019)
      Arnold Clark Cup winner (2022, 2023) More