**England Exclusive: Ex-FIFA Referee Reacts as France Clash Leaves Leah Williamson in Real Pain**
England captain **Leah Williamson** may have walked off the pitch after England’s 2-1 Euro 2025 defeat to **France**, but the bruises — both physical and emotional — were impossible to ignore. The hard-fought group-stage match in Lyon saw Williamson take several heavy challenges, including a contentious tackle late in the second half that left her limping and visibly shaken.
Now, former FIFA referee **Christina Lehtovaara** has weighed in exclusively, offering her assessment of the officiating and the lack of protection for one of England’s key players. *“That challenge on Williamson in the 77th minute was reckless,”* Lehtovaara said. *“In my opinion, it warranted at least a yellow card, if not a second yellow for accumulation. The referee missed an opportunity to take control of the game.”*
Williamson, who has only recently returned to full fitness after a lengthy injury layoff, appeared in real discomfort after the clash, clutching her ankle before playing on through the pain. Post-match, she admitted to being in “serious pain” and questioned the lack of consistency in officiating. *“I expect physical matches,”* she said, *“but there has to be a line. That was dangerous, and I didn’t feel protected out there.”*
England manager **Sarina Wiegman** also addressed the incident, saying the team’s medical staff would assess Williamson’s condition ahead of the must-win clash against **Sweden**. *“Leah’s tough, but we’ll make sure she’s ready. We need her leadership now more than ever.”*
The match, already a setback for England’s Euro campaign, has now raised further concerns about player safety at the highest level. As the Lionesses prepare for their next challenge, the focus remains on both recovery — and redemption.
