England defender Jess Carter says she worried teammate Lauren James would face “astronomical” racist abuse if James had been the only player to miss during England’s Euro 2025 quarterfinal shootout against Sweden. Carter told UK broadcaster ITN she even felt a “sigh of relief” when other non-Black teammates missed as well.
How The Quarterfinal Unfolded
England came from two goals down in Zurich and won the shootout 3–2 after 14 attempts. Sweden goalkeeper Jennifer Falk saved four England penalties, including James’s second effort. Beth Mead, Alex Greenwood and Grace Clinton also missed for England.
Stepping Away from Social Media
Carter, 27, said she had been targeted by racist abuse online since the tournament began and stepped away from social media during Euro 2025.
“It makes you feel really small… not valuable,” she said of the impact on her confidence and family.
Team Stance and Final Nerves
England, who traditionally take a knee before matches as an anti-racism gesture, chose not to do so before their semifinal against Italy. Carter linked that decision to her experiences during the tournament. She also admitted feeling fear when told she would start the final against Spain, which England won 3–1 on penalties after a 1–1 draw.
Why It Matters
Carter’s account underscores the pressures Black players face in high-stakes moments. By speaking openly, she highlighted how abuse shapes on-field emotions and team choices. The disclosure reinforces the headline point that Jess Carter feared racist abuse and shows how that fear influenced her relief when others missed, as well as her mindset before the final.
