Queen congratulates ‘inspirational’ Lionesses on historic Euro win and says team’s ‘success goes far beyond trophy’

THE Queen has paid tribute to the Lionesses tonight after their sensational win over Germany in the Euro final.

The monarch sent a message of congratulation after grandson Prince William handed out medals to England's heroic girls.

The women's team lifted the cup after a stunning 2-1 victory over their rivals in a historic clash at Wembley thanks to goals from Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly.

Her Majesty said: "My warmest congratulations, and those of my family, go to you all on winning the European Women's Football Championships.

"It is a significant achievement for the entire team, including your support staff.

"The Championships and your performance in them have rightly won praise.

"However, your success goes far beyond the trophy you have so deservedly earned.

"You have all set an example that will be an inspiration for girls and women today, and for future generations.

"It is my hope that you will be as proud of the impact you have had on your sport as you are of the result today."

The Duke of Cambridge has also paid tribute to the team for their “sensational” win.

He said: “The whole nation couldn’t be prouder of you all."

A total of 87,192 fans watched the game at Wembley today - the biggest-ever audience for a Euro final.

As the final whistle blew, the stadium erupted in phenomenal scenes.

There were tears of joy as England finally claimed their astonishing win.

William was in the crowd for a nail-biting match peppered with yellow cards, and the game was balanced on a knife-edge right up until the final seconds.

But as England's heroes finally made women's football history, fans packed into boozers around the country threw their pints in the air and roared with pride.

The Lionesses' courage has secured the first major trophy for the women's team.

The victory is also the first football honour for the nation since the men's 1966 World Cup win.

It's believed a record breaking 19.5 million viewers watched the event on TV tonight.

The Lionesses have inspired a generation of girls with their incredible campaign to the Euro 2022 final.

Back-heeling heroine Alessia Russo and teammates, Leah Williamson, Beth Mead and Millie Bright have become household names thanks to their stunning campaign.

The FA now expects 120,000 more girls to be playing the sport by 2024 due to England’s success.