‘As if she had won the Champions League’ - Kendall’s memorable night for England
Lucia Kendall found the net within six minutes of just her second England start.
“She reacted like a Champions League winner,” remarked England manager Sarina Wiegman with a smile.
For Lucia Kendall, the feeling was almost identical.
This comment came as Wiegman spoke about the young midfielder’s ecstatic reaction to her maiden England goal – during the opening stages of a triumph over Ghana at St Mary's Stadium.
“The ground staff might need to repair that turf!” she quipped, referring to Kendall’s perfect knee slide.
Rising to her feet within her celebrating colleagues, the young player wore an expression of overwhelming happiness.
A Fairytale Homecoming
Kendall was “a mainstay” at Southampton – a club where she had devoted ten years, coming through their academy and playing 103 appearances before moving to Villa in July.
Consequently, netting at her old stomping ground in only her third game for England was an magical experience.
“It was a truly special moment to achieve this here, in my hometown. This place shaped the player I am,” Kendall remarked.
“It felt like it was written [in the stars]. It was so special. I got consumed by emotion really.”
‘Things Have Gone So Quickly’
It may have been Southampton who “developed” Kendall, but a major decision at the age of 15 proved decisive to her future.
Despite being a capable cricketer (her father had a career with Hampshire), the impending demands of senior football at Southampton necessitated a decision. She selected football.
“It was a tough call. I simply couldn't manage both,” Kendall explained in a October media conference.
“I loved playing cricket growing up. It was a really difficult decision. I went back and forth, but when the time came, I knew I enjoy football a bit more.”
A Chelsea supporter, her childhood hero was the prolific England midfielder Frank Lampard, and Kendall’s early career is mirroring that goalscoring trend.
Juggling life at Southampton with a psychology degree at university, it was clear early on that Kendall had the determination and commitment to become a star.
Southampton kept their prized asset as long as possible, but upon her contract expiry, Villa secured her signature to the WSL.
Within months the Winchester-born player has made a name for herself, becoming a regular in the top flight and breaking into the England squad.
“Displaying consistency is challenging for any new arrival in the WSL, but she has managed it,” noted Wiegman.
“Everything has happened at breakneck speed, but her ability to sustain her high standards is truly notable.”
Her performance was notable; she came close to scoring again and nearly crafted another chance, preceding Russo’s spot-kick.
Exiting the pitch to applause, the announcer emphasized her deep connection to the club and city.
Having scored 29 times for Southampton during her long tenure, she said, “My early exposure to senior football there from 16 set me up perfectly.
“Their unwavering belief in my abilities made me feel prepared for the challenge ahead.
“Entering the England setup, I was aware I had to demonstrate my worth. The increased pace felt like a step up in class.”
‘Technically and Tactically, She Is a Very Strong Midfielder’
Lucia Kendall made 103 appearances for Southampton before her exit in 2025.
Her seamless transition to the international stage has led to praise for her innate midfield qualities and natural demeanour.
The England manager aims to safeguard her exposure, citing the roles of both media and club, but is reassured by the player’s humble nature.
In her early interactions with the press, she stressed her willingness to play her part for the benefit of the team.
According to Russo, Kendall’s assimilation was so smooth it seemed she’d was a veteran presence.
“{This team's just gone on to win back-to
