The Shard will be lit up all weekend in St George’s colours in of support the England’s Lionesses.
The Shard’s spire lights have been illuminated in a design inspired by the St. George’s flag since Thursday August 17 to show support for the Lionesses, as the nation gets behind the record-breaking team in the World Cup final against Spain on Sunday.
Back in 2021, The Shard proudly displayed the St. George’s flag when the England Men’s team reached the European Championships final and narrowly lost to Italy.
Last year, it lit up with the flag to support the Lionesses at the UEFA Women’s Euros final and celebrate their victory.
One year on, the same support is on show for the Lionesses this weekend.
Two young footballers from South London, Aysia-Raine Rowe and Anaiah Edite-Cox, were invited along for a preview of the Lioness display on Thursday evening from a vantage point in Southwark. The pair have been playing football since they were eight years old.
Camberwell girls’ football club could represent south London in world’s largest youth competition
Now they represent the South London Girls Football Academy Under-12s team, with Aysia-Raine playing as a Winger and Anaiah taking on a Central Midfield role.
Situated within sight of The Shard, the SLGFA provides access to professional and holistic coaching for girls aged four to fourteen from across the south London Boroughs who are interested in playing football.
Rising stars Aysia-Raine and Anaiah are looking forward to the final this weekend. Whilst they agree England will win, each has a different prediction for the game. “I think it’s going to be a close match with Spain, but England will just shave it with a 3 – 2 victory in normal time,” said Aysia-Raine.
Anaiah is predicting extra time: “I think it’s going to go all the way and we’ll have a penalty shoot-out, with England winning 6 – 5.
“Whatever happens, it’s amazing to see the Lionesses make the World Cup final.
“It’s such an inspiration for young footballers like us to think that everyone is suddenly watching the women’s game.
“There’ll be plenty more girls wanting to join clubs like ours and follow in the footsteps of players like Alessia Russo and Mary Earps.”
The dazzling red and white display inspired by the St. George’s flag will be visible to London’s eight million residents and summer visitors as they travel around the city over the next few days.
The Lioness display will run every evening from Thursday, August 17 to Sunday, August 20 creating a beacon of support for England as they go for World Cup glory.