Fishlock writes history in two ways

At 38 years old and 176, Jess Fishlock holds the new record for the oldest goalscorer at a European Championship. IMAGO/Shutterstock

In the 13th minute, there was great jubilation in St. Gallen's Kybunpark. The clear underdogs Wales had just equalized against the favored French. Ultimately, the Welsh team lost 4-1 and now find themselves with their backs against the wall heading into their final group match. However, progressing was not considered particularly realistic for the European Championship debutants in a strong group featuring France, defending champions England, and the Netherlands.

The celebrations were all the greater after Jess Fishlock scored to make it 1-1. Jess Fishlock, of all people, you'd almost think. With 164 caps, she's her country's record-breaking player. Now she also had the honor of scoring the first-ever goal for her country at a European Championship – in Switzerland, of all places – where she had made her international debut 19 years ago. "For us as a nation, scoring a goal at this tournament is history," Fishlock said after the match.

But that's not all: At the same time, at 38 years and 176 days, she became the oldest goalscorer in the history of the Women's European Championship – the previous record held by Northern Ireland's Julie Nelson (37 years, 33 days). "I'll take that as a compliment," said Fishlock – who also once played for 1. FFC Frankfurt – with a wink when asked about her new record. But she immediately passed the accolades on. "I couldn't have received these awards without the support of my entire team. So I'm very grateful, and maybe I'll be able to internalize that a little more after the tournament."

Fishlock's importance to her country was also evident when she was substituted shortly before the end and received a standing ovation. "We have the best fans in the world," said Fishlock. "They come here, they're loud, they're proud, and they support us. They know it's hard, they know we're doing absolutely everything we can, and they know we want to get better. To everyone who's here and supporting us—thank you so much."

But she wasn't just proud of the fans, but also of her teammates, who fought bravely. "I think we had some moments, and for the most part, we were in the game. We did exactly what we were expected to do. And I think the biggest takeaway we've had so far in this tournament is the little moments where we just need to get a little bit better. But we're so close. I'm so proud of this group."

Fishlock and her teammates now have one more match to play – Wales still have a chance of advancing against England, albeit a slim one. But they'll remember the tournament either way.