England’s Lionesses have successfully defended their European crown, beating Spain 3–1 on penalties after a tense 1–1 draw in the final of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 held at St. Jakob-Park in Basel, Switzerland.
The win marks back-to-back European titles for Sarina Wiegman’s side, and serves as sweet revenge for their loss to Spain in the 2023 World Cup final.
Spain dominated possession in the first half and were rewarded in the 25th minute when Mariona Caldentey rose to head home a pinpoint cross from Ona Batlle, exposing a flat-footed English defence. But England, as they had done in previous knockout matches, remained composed and resilient.
The Lionesses equalised in the second half through Alessia Russo, who powered in a header just before the hour mark to level the score at 1–1.
With neither side able to find a winner during extra time, the match headed to penalties. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton emerged as the hero, saving two spot-kicks including a crucial one from reigning Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí.
Chloe Kelly, known for her knack for decisive moments, coolly converted the winning penalty, sealing a 3–1 shootout victory and sparking jubilant celebrations.
The win further cements Wiegman’s legacy as one of football’s greatest managers. She has now won three consecutive European Championships first with the Netherlands in 2017, then with England in 2022 and 2025.
England’s road to the title was far from easy. They mounted a stunning comeback against Sweden in the quarter-finals, erasing a 2–0 deficit to force penalties. In the semi-finals, they equalised deep into stoppage time against Italy, with Michelle Agyemang and Kelly once again delivering in extra time.
For Spain, the defeat is a bitter blow. After winning their maiden Women’s World Cup in 2023, La Roja were aiming to complete a historic double with a European title. But despite dominating possession, they failed to capitalise and were punished by England’s ruthless resolve.
With this triumph, England reaffirm their dominance in European women’s football, while Spain are left to reflect on what could have been.
