‘Incredible crowd love’ gave Carter courage to play

After being racially abused, defender Jess Carter claims that her support in England’s Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy “meant everything” otherwise she wouldn’t have had the confidence to play in the 2-1 victory.

Following a successful extra-time performance in Geneva, the Lionesses were able to advance to the Euros final for the second time in a row.

Just two days prior, Carter made it known that she had been the victim of racist abuse online since the Swiss tournament started.

The England players then made a statement that they would no longer kneel before games and instead sat still before Tuesday’s kickoff against Italy. Carter was one of the witnesses who stood with their arms tucked together on the touchline in a show of solidarity.

The 27-year-old Gotham FC defender made a dazzling comeback when she came on late in extra time as a substitute as the reigning champions fought for a comeback victory.

The response to the audience “meant everything,” Carter told BBC Sport.

Without that, whether or not I would have spent the final three minutes on the pitch, I wouldn’t have felt confident.

I’m not sure if I had had the guts to stand up for my team. I can’t be more appreciative of everyone who has shown their support for me because they have given me the opportunity to do that.

“I’m incredibly appreciative of them.” Because they were loud and amazing, I hope they kept that energy throughout each and every game for each and every player we had.

Thank you so much for the incredible love I experienced.

When Carter was pressed to describe her emotions on the touchline, Carter replied, “I was trying to focus on not crying.

“Standing together” was intended to raise awareness of racism, that it is still present, and that people still have to deal with it.

We wanted to make the point again to people who leave hateful comments, but I’m not saying that will be done. We’re here to strive to do what you can for your country.

I can handle those criticisms, but I don’t mind if someone says that my feet don’t matter because they don’t play well. I’ll continue to give everything to help my country.

Former Chelsea defender said: “It was really difficult for me to step up and talk about something.” I keep my head down and keep going, which is not really my style.

“But it got to the point where I didn’t feel at ease or confident.”

Everyone on my team has been fantastic, I said. My team has provided incredible support.

England were on the verge of losing in Geneva when Michelle Agyemang equalized in the 96th minute, before Chloe Kelly scored after saving her penalty in the final minute.