Basel, July 27, 2025 — The UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 Final lived up to its billing as a heavyweight showdown between reigning European champions England and World Cup holders Spain. Under the floodlights of St. Jakob-Park in Basel, a tense, dramatic 1–1 draw after 90 minutes set the stage for extra time—and possibly penalties—in what could go down as one of the great tournament finals.
Repeat of a Rivalry, Reignited
Just two years after Spain edged England 1–0 in the 2023 World Cup Final, the two giants of European football met again—this time with continental glory at stake. In a rare repeat of back-to-back finals, the matchup showcased the evolution of a growing rivalry built on tactical intelligence, technical brilliance, and fierce ambition.
England, under Sarina Wiegman, came in as defending champions after lifting their first Euro title in 2022. Spain, fresh from their World Cup triumph, were looking to claim their first-ever European crown, solidifying their recent dominance in the women’s game.
First Half: Spain Strike First
Spain, as expected, dominated possession from the outset. Their fluid midfield, marshaled by the ever-impressive Aitana Bonmatí, carved open England’s defense in the 25th minute. A driving run by Ona Batlle down the right led to a pinpoint cross, met with a perfectly timed header by Mariona Caldentey. Spain led 1–0, and the Lionesses looked momentarily rattled.
England suffered another blow before the break when creative midfielder Lauren James, controversially started despite fitness doubts, limped off in the 40th minute. The decision to play her, now under scrutiny, robbed the Lionesses of their spark in the final third.
Second Half: The Lionesses Roar Back
If the first half belonged to Spain, the second was all England. Energized and reorganized, the Lionesses pressed higher and transitioned faster. In the 57th minute, Chloe Kelly delivered a trademark whipped cross into the box. Rising above two defenders, striker Alessia Russo thumped a header past Spanish keeper Misa Rodríguez to level the score 1–1.
The equalizer sent English fans into raptures across fan zones from Basel to Birmingham, and the momentum swung dramatically. England looked the more likely to score late, with Georgia Stanway and Lauren Hemp both testing the keeper from range.
Extra Time Awaits
With the full-time whistle signaling a 1–1 draw, extra time looms to decide who lifts the trophy. Both managers have difficult choices ahead. Spain may regret not extending their lead in the first half, while England will rue the missed chances late on. The energy, emotion, and stakes are now at a boiling point.
A Match of Global Significance
This final was more than just a contest between two teams—it was a celebration of how far women’s football has come. Over 40,000 fans packed into the stadium, while millions more watched across the globe. It featured five Ballon d’Or nominees, two elite coaches, and players from the top leagues across Europe.
Veteran Lucy Bronze made history, becoming England’s most capped player in major tournaments (36 appearances). Her leadership on the night was as crucial as ever, particularly in organizing the backline in the face of Spain’s fluid attack.
Results:
England edged past Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout that had fans holding their breath. The tension was electric as both sides exchanged flawless early spot-kicks. But it was Jordan Pickford’s stunning diving save—palming away Spain’s third attempt—that swung the momentum. Bukayo Saka, showing nerves of steel, slotted his kick top corner, banishing past demons. When Spain’s final taker rattled the crossbar, the stadium erupted. England’s players sprinted toward Pickford, heroes in a night of unbearable suspense. A shootout that will be remembered for its raw drama and relentless intensity.
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