Euro 2022: Blow for Germany as Alexandra Popp is ruled out of final against England at Wembley

Germany suffered a major blow ahead of the Euro 2022 final against England at Wembley as Alexandra Popp was ruled out of the match just before kick-off. The 31-year-old, who scored six times in the tournament to lead her team to the final, suffered a muscular injury during the pre-match warm-up.

Ad/> Germany captain Popp was set to start the final as joint top scorer with England's Beth Mead as both players were vying for the tournament golden boot. Euro 2022'There's pressure on both teams' — Wiegman hits back at Germany boss Voss-Tecklenburg5 HOURS AGO The veteran Wolfsburg striker had scored in every match leading up to the final, including a match-winning brace in the 2-1 semi-final win over France.

Popp has scored a total of 59 goals in 119 appearances for her country, putting her fifth in the all-time scoring charts. /> Lea Schuller replaced Popp in the starting XI for Germany who are looking to win the tournament for a record-extending ninth time.

Schuller herself missed the start of the tournament and the victory over Spain having tested positive for Covid-19 but returned to the team and was on the scoresheet in the 4-0 win over Denmark. Euro 2022'Difficult conversations a turning point' — Mead hails England culture ahead of final9 HOURS AGO Euro 2022'A moment of reflection' — Williamson believes Lionesses success can impact wider society20 HOURS AGO