What Is Cocky Celebration? Chloe Kelly Slammed After Women’s Euro Win

England's star, Chloe Kelly, has been labeled "cocky" by the Spanish media due to her celebrations after scoring the winning penalty in the UEFA Women's Euro final. The Arsenal winger secured victory for the Lionesses, marking their second consecutive European Championship title. However, Kelly's celebration has drawn criticism from foreign media outlets, which describe it as "unnecessary." After scoring from 12 yards, Kelly deviated from her path and made a gesture in front of La Roja goalkeeper Cata Coll, which did not go down well with many, according to the Spanish outlet Diario AS.

Why Was Chloe Kelly Criticised after Women's Euro 2025 Final?

Kelly introduced a shift in momentum during the first half of a game that Spain had dominated and was set to win. However, the Arsenal star, who, like her fellow Gunners teammates, adds European Championship glory to her Champions League success by assisting Alessia Russo's equalizer in the 57th minute, following Mariona Caldentey's opener in the 25th minute.
The two sides could not be separated after 120 minutes, leading to a tense penalty shootout. England was grateful for the contributions of goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, who made two saves and saw another penalty go wide, securing a 3-1 victory in the shootout.

UEFA Women's Euro Final Controversy

In Diario AS's full match report, they claimed that England, who were defeated by Spain in the Women's World Cup final two years ago, "robbed" their Iberian opponents. "The dream ends in a nightmare," they added. The further commented that "History is made by victories and by defeats. Spain fell in the Euro Cup final but left its name sealed in gold. England robbed them of their dream; the world champions couldn’t complete the journey they began to write two years ago in Sydney. They couldn't have been crueler in the penalty shootout, tossing a few dice in the air."

Chloe Kelly had missed a penalty in the semi-final win over Italy, although she scored the rebound, and she was determined that history would not repeat itself. She said, "I was adamant I wasn't missing two in a row. I was cool and composed. I knew I was going to hit the back of the net. I don't miss penalties twice." The 27-year-old feared her hopes of playing for England Women's National Football Team were fading as she struggled for form and minutes at Manchester City. Chloe Kelly eventually signed for Arsenal on loan in January and made her move permanent in July, allowing her to regain her best form and achieve significant professional milestones.