thousands of Lionesses enthusiasts shared the crew’s semi-final heartbreak towards the US closing night – however, delighted in a World Cup run that has converted perceptions of women’s football.
Pubs, bars and fan zones across the capital had been full of supporters final night time as England’s girls succumbed to a 2-1 defeat to the reigning champions.
Despite the loss – which covered a rollercoaster of emotions amid VAR controversy – spectators said this yr’s Women’s World Cup become a recreation-changer for a game that has historically been performed inside the shadow of the men’s game.
“The group has played properly thru the complete match and should be so proud,” stated Charlie Green, 25, a King’s College, a clinical student from Wandsworth.
“I wish it’s far a catalyst of change for girls’ soccer. Compared to 4 years in the past, the media insurance and prominence of the game is a lot better.
“The Lionesses are a high-quality team and made one of these valiant attempts.”
Watching the sport in the free fan zone in Battersea Park, tech entrepreneur Tim Hogwood delivered: “It has been exceptional. This tournament has changed how the kingdom perspectives women’s soccer, and it’s far absolutely interesting to peer wherein it could pass.”
Chloe Woolaway, 22, a sabbatical officer at Canterbury Christchurch University who performs as a right winger for Herne Bay Ladies, brought: “Hopefully this will encourage more ladies to get worried in soccer. I watched every single game of the ultimate women’s world cup, and the great has were given a lot higher.
“The team did truly well; they need to be so happy with themselves.”
Friend Laura Buttimer, 23, an occupational therapist from Canterbury, said the pair had traveled to France to look at the England vs. Cameroon sport and met the Lionesses and manager Phil Neville post-fit.
“They were a bit deflated after all the controversy around that recreation, however, have saved centered and performed truly well,” she said.
Couple Brit Paul Rooke, 58, and American Maggie McCarthy, 54, each senior managers inside the tech enterprise had a mainly hectic 97 minutes helping the rival teams.
Ms. McCarthy, who hails from New York, but lives in Greenwich with Mr. Rooke, said: “There have been a few friendly contentions.
“As soon as we observed out England might be playing the USA, the own complete family has been from side to side on Messenger.”
The pair watched the sport with Mr. Rooke’s youngsters, Phoebe, 22, an art representative, Ollie, 24, an operations manager, and Ed, 33, an IT manager, and his female friend Leah Hidden, 22, a local engineering co-ordinator.
“We figured that either way, we’d be winners,” brought Ms. McCarthy. “The complete match has been first-rate, and raised the profile of women’s football
