Lauren James: The player who strikes a ball like no one else in the women’s game

In the dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape of women’s football, certain talents emerge that redefine what’s possible. Lauren James is undeniably one such player, possessing a unique blend of physical prowess and a shot so potent it stands apart in the women’s game. Her recent opening goal against the Netherlands, a thunderbolt that etched itself into the record books as the fastest and most powerful of the 2025 European Championship qualifiers, serves as a stark testament to her singular ability.

Netherlands head coach Andries Jonker articulated the challenge James presents with a mix of admiration and exasperation: “All opponents have to accept she has more physical power than anybody else.” This isn't mere hyperbole; it's an acknowledgment of a fundamental truth that underpins James's effectiveness. Her robust physique, combined with exceptional balance and agility, makes her an almost immovable force when she has possession. Jonker further elaborated, “The moment she gets the ball and starts to dribble, it’s very difficult for women to get her off the ball, wherever she plays.” This combination of strength and dribbling flair allows her to navigate congested areas, create space where none seems to exist, and, crucially, set herself up for the devastating strikes that have become her hallmark.