The England women's football team, affectionately known as the Lionesses, were greeted by ecstatic fans as they returned home on Monday following their triumphant Euro 2025 victory over Spain. Hundreds of supporters, draped in England flags and kits, gathered outside Southend Airport to catch a glimpse of their victorious heroes.

A Hero's Welcome

The Lionesses arrived at Southend Airport shortly after 15:30 BST, stepping off a plane adorned with the England badge and the word "Home." Captain Leah Williamson led the team off the aircraft, proudly holding the Euro 2025 trophy. The squad, dressed in their tracksuits and winner's medals, posed for a photograph on the tarmac, capturing the historic moment.

Downing Street Reception

From the airport, the team traveled by coach to Downing Street, where they were hosted by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner. The players presented Rayner with a signed England shirt and enjoyed a reception in the garden of No 10. "The Lionesses have brought it home again," Rayner declared. "And what a fantastic feeling that is. Champions of Europe again."

Celebrations in London

An open-top bus parade through central London is scheduled for Tuesday, with a procession along The Mall and a ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace. The celebrations are a testament to the team's incredible achievement, becoming the first English team to win a major tournament on foreign soil.

Historic Victory

England defended their European title with a 3-1 penalty shootout victory in the Euro 2025 final in Basel. Chloe Kelly scored the winning spot-kick, following two crucial saves from goalkeeper Hannah Hampton. The match was watched by over 16 million people on TV, making it the most-watched television moment of the year.

Royal Praise

King Charles III also paid tribute to the Lionesses, expressing the Royal Family's "warmest appreciation and admiration." He added, "The next task is to bring home the World Cup in 2027 if you possibly can." Plans for a reception at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle in the autumn are reportedly being explored.

Calls for Recognition

There have been calls for the team to be recognized with honors, with the prime minister's spokesman noting that there is an independent process for nominations. However, he added, "I hope we'll see lots of nominations for this incredible winning team."

Economic Impact

Downing Street dismissed calls for an extra bank holiday following the victory, with the spokesman humorously remarking, "If we had a bank holiday every time the Lionesses win we'd never go to work." Despite the economic considerations, the nation remains united in celebrating the Lionesses' historic achievement.

Special Postmark

Royal Mail announced plans to mark England's win with a special postmark, which will be applied to stamped mail across the UK from Monday to Friday. It reads: "It's Home. Again. Champions of Europe 2025. England Women's Football Squad."

Looking Ahead

As the Lionesses bask in the glory of their Euro 2025 victory, the focus now shifts to the upcoming World Cup in 2027. With the nation behind them, the Lionesses are poised to continue their legacy and inspire future generations of footballers.