OPINION: EURO 2005 VS. EURO 2022: A SHIFT IN PROGRESS?
Updated: May 2, 2025
The 2005 Women's Euros marked a watershed moment for women's football, with record crowds and major news coverage. As hosts, England faced pressure to ensure the tournament left a lasting impact.
21,105 spectators watched Germany beat Norway in the final—evidence of growing interest. Football overtook netball as the most popular sport for girls in the UK in 2001, and Euro 2005 aimed to build on it.
However, participation rates across the UK saw little change after the tournament.
By the time England prepared to host Euro 2022, the landscape had shifted.
The creation of the Women's Super League (WSL) marked the first time domestic football was shown on television, with coverage regularly shown on free-to-air platforms. Primetime kick-offs placed women’s football at the heart of TV schedules, with audiences driving interest and investment.
By 2022, matches were held nationwide — from London to Manchester — while grassroots participation soared, rising from 3.4 million to 10.2 million.
The government pledged £230 million for grassroots football, yet cuts to local council budgets have strained community resources. Only 44% of secondary schools offer equal access for girls, with many teams struggling to secure quality facilities.
The FA aimed for 75% of schools to offer equal football access, with 1,000 accredited clubs offering development pathways for girls.
Nonetheless, barriers remain. Issues like lack of investment, injuries, and childcare persist, particularly when returning from pregnancy — a reality male players don't face.
As Women's Euro 2025 approaches, the urgency to ensure women’s football remains equal, inclusive, and reflective of society is more critical than ever.
Nerea Fernandes
Writer
Her Football Sphere
March 2025
Word count: 255
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