England edge Spain on penalties to retain Women’s Euro crown

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England edge Spain on penalties to retain Women’s Euro crown
England edge Spain on penalties to retain Women’s Euro crown

England won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 title after a tense final against Spain at St. Jakob-Park in Switzerland ended 1-1, with the Lionesses prevailing 3-1 in the penalty shootout.

Spain opened the scoring in the 25th minute through Mariona Caldentey, who powered in a header following a pinpoint cross from Ona Batlle. The reigning world champions dominated the first half, dictating the tempo and enjoying 65 per cent of possession over the course of the match.

However, England, under coach Sarina Wiegman, showed resilience yet again. Just as in every knockout match of the tournament, they came from behind. Alessia Russo equalised in the 57th minute with a well-placed header, shifting the momentum in England’s favour. The equaliser came after Wiegman made tactical changes at the break to counter Spain’s fluid style.

Despite Spain registering 22 shots to England’s 8, the match ended level after extra time, and penalties followed.

Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton emerged as the hero, saving two penalties and earning the Player of the match award. England converted three of their spot-kicks, while Spain managed just one.

After the match, England coach Sarina Wiegman said: “We came from behind every single game in the tournament. I’m proud of the team. Spain are the world champions and it was very tough to follow their rhythm—they’re excellent at controlling the ball. I made some changes in the second half to improve our play, and we made it.”

Spain’s coach Montse Tome reflected: “We were so close to winning. We wanted more and we only lost on penalties.”

The victory marks England’s second consecutive UEFA Women’s Euro title, underlining their growing dominance in European football.