England Goalkeeper Hampton Throws Spain’s Penalty Notes During Women’s EURO Final Shootout

England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton played a pivotal role in the Lionesses' Euro 2025 title defense, notably during the final penalty shootout against Spain where she saved two crucial penalties. Hampton revealed she cleverly disrupted Spain goalkeeper Cata Coll's penalty-taking strategy by throwing Coll's water bottle, which contained tactical notes, into the English crowd, leaving Coll confused and without her notes. Instead, Hampton kept her own notes taped to her arm to avoid detection and gain a strategic advantage. This act of gamesmanship, combined with Hampton's outstanding saves, helped England win the shootout 3-1 and retain the Women’s European Championship. Hampton described the prior quarterfinal shootout against Sweden as traumatic, underscoring the team's intense preparation and mental resilience. Her performance earned her recognition in the team of the tournament, highlighting her rise from a reserve player to a key figure in England's success.