Euro 2022: Anita Asante says England are definitely 'title contenders'

Euro 2022 is less than six weeks away and the debate over who will lift the trophy at the end of the tournament continues to be a hot topic.

As England prepare to host the Euros for the second time in the competition’s history, many are discussing whether the Lionesses can win their first ever title.

Former England international Anita Asante spoke to GiveMeSport Women about her nation’s chances of coming out on top this summer.

“Yes, absolutely,” the ex-defender said when asked if the Lionesses are in with a shot of winning the Euros. “I think they’ve got to be considered contenders — why not? They’ve been to three consecutive semi-finals, they’re definitely up there with the top teams in Europe.”

Indeed, England have been steadily notching international victories and are yet to lose a match under Sarina Wiegman. Since the former Netherlands head coach took over in September 2021, the Lionesses have tallied some astonishing results, including their 20-0 win over Latvia, which set a new national record.

England have put themselves in great stead heading into Euro 2022 after an historic victory at the Arnold Clark Cup in February.

Spain, Canada, and Germany travelled to the UK for the inaugural instalment of the competition. After six fixtures across three English venues, Wiegman’s side clinched the trophy after a thrilling four-goal clash with Germany on the final day.

A simple win against Germany would not have been enough to see England’s name etched onto the cup, they needed to trump European giants Spain on goal difference as well.

Goals from Ellen White, Millie Bright, and a stoppage time strike from Fran Kirby secured an empathic 3-1 win and England’s first piece of silverware since 2019.

The Arnold Clark Cup was