Bringing the fire
As the Dragons of Wales prepare to face England’s Lionesses, ex-players Helen Ward and Fara Williams give their verdict on how things are heating up
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- Michael Potts
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Helen Ward
Former Wales striker Helen Ward. Shutterstock
The former Wales striker will be commentating for BBC TV and BBC Radio Wales
What’s the mood like in the Wales camp?
Excitement, plus a nervous energy, in a good way. Only Sophie Ingle has previously played in an international tournament, with Team GB at the Tokyo Olympics.
How impressive has Wales coach Rhian Wilkinson been?
She deserves a huge pat on the back. She has utilised some of the younger players and the impact of players off the bench has been a great asset. That’s credit to Rhian.
How do you think Angharad James will perform as captain?
I’ve known Haz since she was 16. She has always been a very calm presence. She has developed into a real leader, not one who is going to shout and scream.
Who is Wales’s key player?
Jess Fishlock is the focal point for everything good. She can score from 40 yards and get up for a header, despite being about five foot one!
Which Wales player could have a breakout tournament?
Carrie Jones made her debut for Wales aged 15 in 2019. She’s the youngest player to do so and is now playing in Sweden, learning a different type of game. She’s got the world at her feet.
Realistically, how do you think Wales will fare at the Euros?
It’s a really tough group, but I think they have got a decent chance. We saw what Wales men did at Euro 2016. Who’s to say the women can’t follow suit?
And apart from Wales, who is the team to watch?
World Cup holders Spain are the real standout team. A lot of their Barcelona players will be hurting after losing to Arsenal in the Champions League final, but their team is special.
Fara Williams
England's most-capped player Fara Williams. Shutterstock
England’s most-capped player is part of the BBC presenting team at Euro 2025
What’s the mood like in the England camp?
With any tournament, there’s always a little bit of drama in the build-up, but the players are in good hands with coach Sarina Wiegman and their focus now will just be the Euros.
How important is Wiegman to England’s success?
She’s a serial winner. Look at her record: she has got to the final in each of her last four tournaments.
How much will England enjoy having Leah Williamson back?
We saw what she did at Euro 2022 as captain. We missed her leadership and the qualities that she has at the World Cup. The way she can communicate with players, the media and staff is important.
Who is England’s key player?
Lauren Hemp could light up this tournament. She’s somebody who gets bums off seats.
Which England player could have a breakout tournament?
The goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, off the back of what her predecessor Mary Earps did – look how important she became to the team and her connection with the fans. Also Michelle Agyemang. She scored on her debut and could be a real wild card.
Do you think England can retain the title?
I never doubt Sarina or the attitude of the players. Finish first in the group, anything can happen.
Which other teams will do well?
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The Germans are slight underdogs; I don’t think they’ve been mentioned too much. They look like they’re getting back to that dominant Germany team we used to see over the years.
Authors
Michael PottsSport Editor
Michael Potts is the Sport Editor for Radio Times, covering all of the biggest sporting events across the globe with previews, features, interviews and more. He has worked for Radio Times since 2019 and previously worked on the sport desk at Express.co.uk after starting his career writing features for What Culture. He achieved a first-class degree in Sports Journalism in 2014.
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