FlickrNicola Sturgeon praised England’s “brilliant” Lionesses after their Euro 2022 victory over Germany.
Chloe Kelly struck ten minutes before the end of extra time at Wembley to hand the women’s side their first major silverware.
Backed by a record-breaking attendance of more than 87,000, the tournament hosts led through substitute Ella Toone’s lob just after the hour, only for Lina Magull to level 11 minutes before the end of normal time.
With the game looking destined for a penalty shootout, Sarina Wiegman’s side – who have earned a reputation for late exploits throughout the competition – wrenched back the lead when Kelly prodded the ball beyond Merle Frohms in the German goal.
It provoked scenes of elation for the English crowd, both in the stadium and in Trafalgar Square, where the match was being shown on the big screen.
The First Minister was also clearly impressed by what she saw, congratulating the team on their achievement on Twitter.
“Brilliant @Lionesses,” she wrote.
“And just goes to show…when you want something done (or in England speak, ‘brought home’) ask the women!
“Many congratulations – well deserved champions!”
The result caps back-to-back Euros successes for Wiegman after overseeing the Netherlands’ triumph on home soil in 2017.
Her record in charge of England after taking up her post last September has been near-flawless – 20 games, no defeats, 18 wins, 106 goals scored and only five conceded.
It was a third appearance in a Euros final for the team, and first since losing 6-2 to Germany at Euro 2009 in Finland.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar also tweeted his congratulations to the team.
He wrote: “What incredible scenes. Congratulations @Lionesses
“You have inspired a generation.
“What incredible scenes. Congratulations!!”
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