There is not a fear factor about Germany anymore and that is purely down to the way England’s game has developed. The Women’s Super League is now one of the best leagues in the world and other nations have caught up internationally in Europe.
Now you have England, Spain, France, Austria, the Netherlands and so many other nations that have put resources and investment into their teams. The game overall is better in different countries. That means Germany don’t have that wow factor as much.
They are a very good side but there are others now too. For my generation of players it was the case that we could never beat Germany. For this group of players, they have done it before.
The defeats of my generation are not in their minds. That’s why I think they have an added bonus because they don’t have those memories.
I think the two best teams in this tournament are in the final and it’s super special to have it in our home stadium at Wembley – the best stadium in the world.
It has an extra bite to it because of the rivalry England and Germany have had over the years. I just hope it doesn’t go to penalties because I can’t handle penalties! How good would it be if it did though – and we broke that curse?
Will it transcend beyond football? I think everyone will take note. There is a big following now and if it’s on the front pages then I think there will be a big mental shift in the country. The women could do it when it matters.
England’s men fell at the last hurdle last summer in their Euros, but can the women do it this year? They have shown mental strength throughout the tournament and a resilience. I hope they can do it for the country.
Kelly Smith was talking to BBC Sport’s Emma Sanders.