Lucia Kendall’s first England goal against Ghana was a moment of pure joy, celebrated with the exuberance of a major final win. Coach Sarina Wiegman light-heartedly noted the emotional celebration, which included an immaculate knee slide that even required “treatment on the grass.” The 21-year-old midfielder’s strike came just six minutes into her second start for the Lionesses, marking a significant milestone.
Kendall’s journey to this point has been rapid. After a decade at Southampton, where she became a key player, she moved to Aston Villa, quickly establishing herself in the Women’s Super League. Her performance against Ghana, her third international appearance, has drawn praise for her consistency and impact, with Wiegman highlighting her ability to adapt to new environments and maintain a high level of play.
The decision to prioritize football over cricket at age 15 was pivotal for Kendall, allowing her to fully commit to her development. Idolizing Frank Lampard, she has shown similar goal-scoring instincts. Despite her quick rise, Kendall remains grounded, balancing her football career with a psychology degree and a desire for a quiet personal life, impressing coaches and teammates alike with her maturity and understanding of the game.