Lauren James Opens Up On Relief During Euro 2025 Shootout Amid Fears Of Racist Abuse
Written by Oluwaseun Oyediji
England forward Lauren James has admitted she felt an unusual sense of relief during the penalty shootout against Sweden in the Euro 2025 quarter-final, knowing she would not be the only player to miss if things went wrong.
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The Chelsea FC star converted her spot kicks during the match as the Lionesses progress en route retaining their European title.
“Stepping up, I was thinking, if I miss I hope I’m not the only one because I know what comes with it — it happened before and it keeps happening,” She said.
“As sad as it sounds, it was the biggest relief ever that other players missed. Who would have thought that? You always want your teammates to score so you get through. Luckily we missed and got through, but it was not a nice moment. You’re playing for your country, so you should feel the support from the fans. It shouldn’t matter what colour you are,” James told reporters.
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The Chelsea star referenced past instances where England players of colour were targeted with racist abuse after penalty shootouts at major tournaments.
Despite the emotional toll, James insists her commitment to representing England has never wavered.
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“It’s where I’m from, where my mum is from. I always dreamed of playing for my country. We do great things with England — back-to-back Euros, thankfully I was part of the last one. I want to be part of every one going forward.”
England went on to advance to the semi-finals, but James’ words highlight the ongoing challenges players of colour face in football, even at the highest level.
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