England recorded the biggest victory in European Championships history after beating Norway 8-0 in a Group A clash. Thanks to this impressive win, The Lionesses advanced to the quarterfinals of the tournament after playing just two of their three group matches.
England was 6-0 up at halftime, equaling the previous record set in 2017 when they put six past Scotland. England’s final 8-0 win sets a record both in the men’s and women’s game at the Euros.
Beth Mead scored an inspiring hat-trick as Sarina Wiegman’s side showed no mercy to their opponents in Brighton while a crowd of 28,847 cheered in support.
England faces Northern Ireland in Southampton on Friday, already aware that they’ll finish top in their group no matter the score. The Lionesses are on a 16-game unbeaten run under Wiegman, winning 14 games and drawing two.
“I’m really enjoying my football, I love being part of this team. Honestly, it’s an incredible feeling to feel how I do right now,” Beth Mead said after the Norway match. “I keep saying it, but I can’t put it into words, honestly. I’m just loving being here, loving being part of this team and enjoying every minute.”
Austria and Norway, a title contender ahead of the tournament, will face off on Friday in Brighton to decide the second team to make it into the quarterfinals from Group A. Currently, the two national teams are tied at three points each.
England gained pace and odds reflect it
Ahead of the tournament, England was at +400 to triumph at the Euros, tied with France and behind Spain at +300. Alexia Putellas’ last-minute injury has hit Spain badly, however, with the odds following suit. The Spanish are now third favorites at +350. At +275, France is regarded as having the highest chance to lift the trophy at Wembley on July 31. England follows at +300, with their impressive form reflected by a drop in the odds.
Beth Mead wasn’t among the top three candidates to become the Golden Boot of the Euros, but is now the favorite at +125. She’s followed by Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Grace Geyoro at +500. Ellen White, who topped the odds charts at +400 ahead of the tournament, is now in fourth position at +550.