Many pubs have been screening matches – and making huge efforts to get behind the tournament – despite the onerous kick-off times with the Women’s World Cup taking place in Australia and New Zealand.
UKH chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “Massive congratulations to the Lionesses – what a fantastic achievement to reach the World Cup final.
“I know the entire nation will be rooting them on this Sunday, with plenty making the most of the occasion by watching from their local pub or bar.
“We’ve seen venues already make a huge effort for the Women’s World Cup and we expect that to go even further this Sunday, which will inevitably lead to a boost for hospitality businesses.
“We all know the best way to watch sport is down the pub, so I’d encourage everyone to turn out in their droves this Sunday to support the Lionesses.”
Euro joy
The final takes place this Sunday (20 August) with an 11am (British summer time) kick-off, which could make for a great day at the pub if licensees choose to double up on football and Sunday lunch.
The Lionesses won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 tournament last year when it was held in England, beating Germany in extra time, thanks to goals from Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly.
On Wednesday (16 August), England saw off host nation Australia 3-1, courtesy of goals from Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo, but despite the scoreline, the match was a lot closer than meets the eye with the Aussies squandering plenty of chances to level the game with the score at 2-1.
In fact, England’s women have ridden a bit of a roller-coaster to reach the final.
Narrow 1-0 wins against Denmark and Haiti was followed by a 6-1 demolition of China to seal top spot in the table for their group stage.
Nervy outing
A nervy outing against a fantastic Nigeria team saw the Lionesses scrape through after a 4-2 penalty shoot-out went their way in the round of 16.
A tough quarter final saw them beat Colombia 2-1 as Hemp and Russo netted.
Meanwhile, Spain’s progress through the group stage began amazingly well but faltered late on. A great 3-0 win against Costa Rica and a 5-0 shutout of Zambia was followed by a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Japan.
A 5-1 win against Switzerland saw Spain through the round of 16 before a 2-1 victory versus the Netherlands put them into the semi-finals.
Goals in the 81st and 89th minutes against Sweden, who drew level in the 88th minute, were enough to see Spain win their semi-final 2-1.
Tournament favourites USA were knocked out 5-4 on penalties by Sweden in the round of 16.
