Prince William cheekily broke protocol during his excitement and elation when England defeated Germany in the UEFA European Women’s Championship.
The English team – affectionately known as the Lionesses – won their first Euros trophy in extra time where they conquered the Germans 2-1 in front of a sell-out raucous home crowd at Wembley Stadium on Sunday night.
England’s Keira Walsh put a perfect through-ball to teammate Ella Toone who sent a perfect chip over the German goalkeeper to put the hosts ahead at the 61st minute.
Germany – who have never lost a Euros final – responded in the 78th minute with a strike near the goal to level the score and send the match into extra time.
Stream more UK news live & on demand with Flash. 25+ news channels in 1 place. New to Flash? Try 1 month free. Offer ends October 31, 2022
The crowd of more than 87,000 fans were on the edge of their seats with ten minutes left before the match was likely headed for a penalty shootout.
But a perfect corner from Lioness Lauren Hemp saw the ball bounce off Lucy Bronze into the German keeper before Chloe Kelly scored the winning goal.
The home fans roared with delight before the final whistle blew to confirm the Lionesses had secured their first major trophy in a stunning upset.
Prince William watched the final alongside other dignitaries, including the potential next British prime minister Liz Truss from the grandstand.
The Duke of Cambridge later handed out the winning medals to each of the women at the award ceremony where he understandably broke protocol.
He initially shook hands with some of the Lionesses before he offered hugs to congratulate the emotional players.
A royal member would traditionally offer their hand for a shake but Prince William has been known to break protocol in past engagements with the public.
Prince William also later took to social media to congratulate the English side again for their victory over Germany.
“Sensational,” he said on his official Twitter page.
“An incredible win @lionesses and the whole nation couldn’t be more prouder of you all.
“Wonderful to see history in the making tonight at Wembley, congratulations! W.”
The Queen also shared a congratulatory message on social media.
“My warmest congratulations, and those of my family, go to you all on winning the European Women’s Football Championships,” the statement read.
“It is a significant achievement for the entire team, including your support staff.
“The Championships and your performance in them have rightly won praise. However, your success goes far beyond the trophy you have so deservedly earned.”
Tens of thousands of Brits flooded pubs and bars around the country post-match to celebrate the Lionesses win.
.