Dribble Diaries

The air in Basel is electric. St. Jakob-Park hums with anticipation. Tonight, July 27, 2025, marks the end of a thrilling UEFA Women's Euro 2025, as two heavyweights of women's football, England and Spain, face off in a final rich in recent history and simmering rivalries. This isn't just a football match; it's a narrative of redemption, tactical evolution, and the relentless pursuit of silverware. For England, the defending champions, it's an opportunity to cement their European dominance and extract sweet retribution on the misery of the 2023 World Cup final.  For Spain, the incumbent world champions, it's an opportunity to add the continental crown to their growing collection and show their unrivaled dominance.  The stakes couldn't be greater, and the scene is set for an extraordinary encounter. The Road to Basel: A Tale of Two Journeys To reach this level, both countries had to take difficult paths.  England's path has been marked by grit and an incr...

The Stade de Genève, July 22, 2025 – a date that will be etched into the annals of UEFA Women's Euro history. The highly anticipated semifinal clash between reigning champions England and a resilient Italy lived up to its billing, The Lionesses delivered a breathless 120 minutes of football, clawing their way back from the brink to secure a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory. But beyond the ecstasy for England and the agony for Italy, this pulsating encounter was rife with moments that have sparked widespread debate, leaving fans, pundits, and players alike questioning the fine margins of elite football and the decisions that shape destiny. This isn't just about a score line; it's about the contentious calls, the tactical gambles, and the sheer unpredictability that define a high-stakes semifinal. Let's deep dive into the moments that had everyone talking, dissecting the controversies that continue to echo across the footballing world. The Stalwart Italian Wall and the Elu...

As the 2025-26 Women’s Super League (WSL) season approaches, Arsenal Women are gearing up for what could be one of their most exciting campaigns yet. Among the key figures driving their ambitions is Chloe Kelly, whose arrival has already begun reshaping the team’s dynamics. Known for her electrifying pace, technical brilliance, and clutch performances, Kelly has quickly become a fan favorite and a tactical linchpin for manager Jonas Eidevall. But just how transformative has her presence been? From her game-changing contributions in the final third to her leadership on and off the pitch, Kelly’s influence extends far beyond the stat sheet. In this in-depth analysis, we’ll explore: Kelly’s tactical fit in Arsenal’s system – How her versatility enhances Eidevall’s strategies Statistical impact – Breaking down her goals, assists, and key performances since joining Big-game mentality – Her role in crucial matches against rivals like Chelsea, Manchester City, and Barcelona Leadership and dre...

The Women's Ballon d'Or is the pinnacle of individual football achievement, and following her amazing UEFA Women's Champions League victory, Arsenal's Alessia Russo has emerged as a contender for the prestigious award in 2025.   Russo's remarkable performances, on-field leadership, and game-changing moments in Europe's elite competition have solidified her place among the world's best.  Her rise from promising talent at Manchester United to global superstar at Arsenal has been nothing short of miraculous, and she is now on the verge of footballing immortality. This blog analyzes Russo's impact at Arsenal, Champions League exploits, England national team influence, and compares her to other strong challengers like as Aitana Bonmatí, Sam Kerr, and Alexia Putellas.  We will also discuss her playing style, crucial statistics, and what distinguishes her in one of the most competitive times in women's football. 1. Introduction: Why Alessia Russo Should Win...

The news of Fran Kirby’s retirement from international football has sent shockwaves through the women’s football community. After a disappointing Nations League campaign with England, the Chelsea superstar has decided to step away from the Lionesses, marking the end of an illustrious career on the international stage. Kirby’s departure leaves a void in English football, not just in terms of her technical brilliance but also her leadership, creativity, and relentless spirit. At 30 years old, she walks away as one of England’s greatest-ever players—a trailblazer who inspired a generation. In this in-depth blog, we’ll explore: Fran Kirby’s Legacy: A Career Defined by Resilience and Brilliance Fran Kirby’s journey with England was never straightforward. Plagued by injuries, health struggles, and setbacks, her career could have easily derailed. She persisted, though, and went on to become one of England's most technically talented players. Early Breakthrough & Rise to Stardom Kirby ...

In women's football, the UEFA Women's Nations League has quickly grown to become one of the most thrilling international competitions. With its unique format, the competition not only provides thrilling matchups but also plays a crucial role in shaping the future of European football. As the latest edition reaches its decisive phase, fans are eagerly anticipating the final group-stage clashes and the upcoming knockout rounds. This blog will highlight the most exciting matches, key players to watch, tactical trends, and the broader implications of the tournament. The Evolution and Significance of the Women's Nations League The Women's Nations League was introduced to provide competitive fixtures for national teams, ensuring that every match carries weight. Unlike traditional friendlies, the tournament structure guarantees high-stakes encounters, helping teams refine their tactics and build chemistry ahead of major tournaments like the UEFA Women's Euro and the FIFA W...

In a shocking turn of events, Mary Earps, England’s Euro 2022-winning goalkeeper, has announced her retirement from international football just weeks before the UEFA Women’s European Championship 2025. The decision has left fans and teammates stunned, as Earps was expected to play a crucial role in England’s title defense. Her departure marks the end of an era for the Lionesses, as she steps away after an illustrious career that saw her become one of the most influential figures in women’s football. From earning the Golden Glove at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup to breaking industry standards, Earps has left an everlasting impression on the sport. A Career Defined by Resilience and Triumph Mary Earps’ journey to becoming England’s number one goalkeeper was far from straightforward. She earned her international debut in 2017, but for years she fought to establish herself in the squad. At one point, she was fourth-choice goalkeeper, often overlooked for major tournaments. However, all c...

The return of Lauren Hemp, Georgia Stanway, and Alex Greenwood to the team is excellent news, according to England's head coach Sarina Wiegman. This morning, Wiegman revealed her 27-man roster for the most recent UEFA Women's Nations League doubleheader against Portugal and Spain. After improving their level of fitness after sustained injuries, Greenwood, Stanway, and Hemp were given recalls. Head coach Wiegman told the media during an England press conference that the return of the three players is a huge plus and that she hopes to now have some new selection headaches. "They've been absent for some time, but their return to [the squad] is very welcome," Wiegman remarked. Players are more eager to perform as the tournament and Nations League draw draw near. They make it very difficult for me and my technical staff to make judgments, so I hope we establish connections soon and raise the caliber of performances. Wiegman was eager to praise individuals who ha...

Alessia Russo has been ruled out of England's Nations League match against Belgium in Leuven on Tuesday due to injury. Russo played 73 minutes in Friday night's 5-0 victory over the same opponents at Ashton Gate before being replaced due to a knock. The Football Association confirmed that Russo had returned to Arsenal for further evaluation. The 26-year-old attacker failed to score against Belgium, hitting the post twice. Michelle Agyemang, an England U19s standout who is presently on loan at Brighton from Arsenal, has been called up as a replacement in her professional debut. England has seven points from a possible nine in Nations League Group A3 ahead of their return match against Belgium on Tuesday.

Sarina Wiegman, England's manager, reveals she is using the Nations League double-header against Belgium to prepare her players for the 2017 European Women's Championship. The Lionesses drew with Portugal before defeating Spain during the previous international break in February, but now face the uncommon prospect of meeting the same team twice in a matter of days. England will host Belgium in Bristol on Friday night before traveling to Leuven on April 8, and Wiegman has revealed that she will also be watching the Euros in Switzerland in July. She stated, "I think it's crucial that we establish a positive image of our team. "Of course, we're going to play Belgium twice and hope to win both games, but we're also getting the team ready for the Euros by knowing who's available and who's in good shape. "So you're constantly thinking in that direction. These two camps have been extremely fierce and entertaining to watch, but the level h...

Montse Tome, Spain's head coach, refused to answer questions about Luis Rubiales, the former president of the Spanish Football Federation, who was found guilty of kissing Jenni Hermoso without her consent. England will face Spain at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday in their first meeting since the Women's World Cup final, which was overshadowed when Rubiales kissed Hermoso during the trophy ceremony in Sydney. Last week, Madrid's High Court found Rubiales guilty of sexual assault and ordered him to pay a fine in excess of €10,000, but cleared him of coercion. Earlier on Tuesday, England manager Sarina Wiegman praised Hermoso's "remarkable courage" in bringing Rubiales to court, while England players praised their Spanish counterparts for speaking out and demanding change. "We're talking about it again today, and I think we'll have to keep talking about it, unfortunately," Wiegman said at Wembley. "We have to keep telling the world that ...