Leah Williamson has faith that England’s superb European Championship campaign is only the beginning of something even bigger.
Sarina Wiegman’s side take on Germany in a sold-out Wembley and win or lose, the Lionesses captain knows that this summer has been a huge step forward for women’s football.
Williamson said: “Regardless of the end result of that game, there will be a nice moment for reflection.
ALSO READ: England vs Germany kick-off time, TV channel and live stream
"It’s my job to go out and play for 90 minutes and win but I think when we look back on this tournament as a whole, we have really started something.
"It would be silly of me to look any further ahead than tomorrow's game. This is what we all live for and this is why I play for.
“This hasn’t just been a change for women’s football but society in general. Tomorrow is not the end of the journey but the start of one."
The Arsenal star has been a key player for the Lionesses throughout the tournament, forming a formidable partnership alongside Millie Bright at the heart of England's defence.
Only Spain have breached the host’s defence thus far, with Wiegman’s side registering clean sheets in wins against Austria, Norway, Northern Ireland and Sweden.
And Williamson was quick to praise her manager’s tactics ahead of the final.
She said: "Fortunately for us, everything we've done has paid off. It's an indication of what we do behind the scenes and the relationship we've built.”
Although the Lionesses have hit 20 goals in just five games en route to the final, the German defence is likely to prove a much sterner test, as they too have conceded just one goal in the tournament.
Williamson said: It's a fairytale fixture with the history behind it. I think you've got the two teams that have had the best tournaments in the final.
"They're a physical team and it's a strength for them, but our game is so strong and the way we play to combat that.
“It's two different approaches potentially, but we have a fight in us that maybe comes out a different way. It's something we're aware of, but not something we can't match.”
Whatever happens against Martina Voss-Tecklenburg’s side on Sunday, the Lionesses can be safe in the knowledge that they have inspired and entertained the nation this summer.
Tickets are on sale now for fans to experience a history-making tournament that aims to unite football and communities and amplify the growth of the women’s game. www.uefa.com/womenseuro/ticketing
READ NEXT
- Sara Dabritz reveals Germany's plan for England in Women's Euro 2022 final
- The Lionesses have shown the way at Women's Euro 2022 and we know what must follow
- Sarina Wiegman knows what England can 'exploit' vs Germany
Get your copy of the Women's Euros final official programme here
