Alessia Russo, the talented England striker, expressed her elation in a recent interview with BBC One, stating, "This is unreal. I'm tired but on cloud nine." The team's remarkable journey has captivated fans and players alike, and Russo's excitement highlights the significance of their achievements.
Reflecting on the team's experiences, Russo shared, "We didn't know what to expect coming into today. It feels so nice to come back to England and celebrate with our fans." The atmosphere has been electric, as supporters gathered to show their love and appreciation for the Lionesses' hard work and dedication.
When asked about her goal during the match, Russo admitted, "No, not really. It was a really tough game." However, she recalled a pivotal moment when teammate Chloe Kelly delivered an excellent cross. "We spoke at half-time that I felt that area was a bit free. As soon as it came in, yeah I put it in the back of the net. It feels a bit surreal," she explained, emphasizing the intensity of the game and the significance of that goal.
The celebrations reached a peak as fans flocked to Buckingham Palace. Vicki Sparks, a commentator for BBC Radio 5 Live, described the scene: "It is incredible. There are so many generations here that have travelled from all over the UK." The enthusiasm was palpable, with fans traveling from diverse locations, including Durham in the north and Bristol in the south-west.
Many fans made significant sacrifices to be part of this historic moment, with Sparks noting, "People got up at 5 am to be here and be part of this moment because this is history." The Lionesses' achievement continues to inspire not only their loyal supporters but also future generations of athletes.
As the celebrations continue, it's clear that the Lionesses have left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans across the nation. Their journey is a testament to resilience, teamwork, and the power of sport to unite people from all walks of life.