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.
Big results under Wiegman
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.
England players pose for a team photo prior to the Arnold Clark Cup match between England and Canada at Riverside Stadium on February 17, 2022 in Middlesbrough, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
The Arnold Clark Cup was a perfect opportunity for England to get into the Euro 2022 spirit, and they certainly grabbed the opportunity with both hands.
After proving they can triumph on home soil against some of the biggest teams in the world, the big test now lies in July when the Lionesses host the European Championships for the second time.
A team of talent
During the Arnold Clark Cup, Wiegman used the three fixtures to rotate her squad and experiment with formations and different players.
Thanks to her decision to put faith in the younger internationals, England now boast an impressive roster with a great amount of depth.
This is something Asante believes puts England on the same wavelength as the European powerhouses featuring in this year's competition.
Women's Euro 2022 trophy
"Now, it's just about those fine margins and we definitely have a squad full of depth with some exciting talents like Lauren Hemp, Leah Williamson, and Beth Mead to name a few. So we can definitely contend with the best."
Asante enjoyed a decorated career before she made the decision to hang up her boots at the end of the 2021/22 season. The 37-year-old was part of the Arsenal side that won the unprecedented quadruple in 2007.
She represented both England and Great Britain on the international stage and tallied more than 70 caps for the Lionesses.
Anita Asante representing England
As Euro 2022 hosts, England have been drawn into Group A alongside Norway, Austria, and Northern Ireland. Their best record at the Euros saw them finish second in 2009 after losing 6-2 to Germany in the final.
The Lionesses will be looking to finally better this result and lift the trophy in front of a roaring home crowd this summer.
Anita Asante was speaking to GiveMeSport Women following her call-up to represent England at Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2022.
Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2022 takes place on Sunday 12th June at the London Stadium. A family of four can attend the game for just £60 – buy your tickets at socceraid.org.uk/tickets