Kendall scored quickly on her second start for the national team.
“She reacted like a Champions League winner,” noted England boss Sarina Wiegman with a laugh.
And for Lucia Kendall, it was a near-equivalent experience.
This comment came as Wiegman recalled the young midfielder’s elated reaction to her maiden England goal – during the opening stages of a win over Ghana at St Mary's Stadium.
“I think the pitch needs some attention after that!” she quipped, poking fun at Kendall’s flawless knee slide.
As the 21-year-old stood up, exhaling deeply and engulfed by her team-mates, a beaming smile appeared on her face.
Having been “an integral part” of Southampton for a decade, where she came up through the youth ranks to play over a century of games, her summer switch to Villa was a major move.
So when she scored at St Mary's Stadium on her return, and on only her third England cap, it was the pinnacle of her career.
“It was a truly special moment to achieve this here, in my hometown. This place made me into the player I am,” Kendall said.
“It appeared as though it was fate. It was so special. I got overwhelmed with emotion really.”
It may have been Southampton who “made” Kendall, but a crucial decision aged 15 proved decisive to her future.
The talented youngster was also a keen cricketer – her dad Will played for Hampshire – but eventually had to pick one of the sports just as she was breaking into Southampton's first-team squad. She chose football.
“It was a tough call. I simply couldn't manage both,” Kendall said in a previous media conference.
“Growing up, I had a passion for cricket. The decision was genuinely tough. I went back and forth, but when the time came, I understood I enjoy football a bit more.”
Her idol growing up as a Chelsea fan was Frank Lampard – an England midfielder renowned for his goalscoring talent – and Kendall has started out in a similar fashion.
Juggling life at Southampton with a psychology degree at university, it was clear early on that Kendall had the work ethic and dedication to become a star.
Southampton held onto their prized asset as long as possible, but upon her contract expiry, Villa signed her to the WSL.
Within months the Winchester-born player has established herself, becoming a consistent starter in the top flight and earning a place in the England squad.
“Maintaining her level immediately in a new league and club is difficult, yet she has done so,” noted Wiegman.
“Things have gone so quickly so fast, but she just keeps up her levels and shows she is a good player - and that is impressive.”
Her performance was notable; she struck the woodwork and nearly crafted another chance, preceding Russo’s spot-kick.
Her substitution on the hour mark was met with a loud reception from fans and an announcer proudly declaring her local roots.
Having netted 29 times for Southampton during her long tenure, she said, “My early exposure to senior football there from 16 was invaluable experience.
“Their unwavering belief in my abilities made me feel prepared for the challenge ahead.
“Entering the England setup, I was aware I had to demonstrate my worth. The increased pace felt like a step up in class.”
Kendall’s time at Southampton concluded after 103 outings in the summer.
At the highest level, she has immediately looked the part, described as a gifted midfielder who “has it”.
The England manager aims to safeguard her exposure, citing the roles of both media and club, but is reassured by the player’s modest nature.
In her early interactions with the press, she stressed her willingness to play her part for the benefit of the team.
Arsenal striker Alessia Russo said it felt like Kendall had “fitted in instantly” as she slotted straight into the squad.
“{This team's just gone on to win back-to
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