England defeat Spain on penalties to win women’s Euro 2025

England triumphed over Spain in a tense penalty shootout to win the 2025 Women’s European Championship, avenging their 2023 World Cup final defeat. The match, held in front of a packed crowd, ended 1-1 after extra time before the Lionesses claimed a 4-3 victory on penalties. Chloe Kelly, who came on as a first-half substitute, converted the decisive spot-kick, replicating her heroics from the 2023 final. Spain had taken the lead through Mariona Caldentey’s header, but Alessia Russo’s second-half equaliser forced the game into extra time.

Spain started brightly, with Caldentey breaking the deadlock in the 32nd minute after connecting with Ona Batlle’s cross. England’s task grew harder when Lauren James, a key attacking threat, was forced off with an ankle injury. However, Kelly’s introduction proved pivotal as she assisted Russo’s 55th-minute header, levelling the score. Despite Spain’s dominance in possession, England’s defence held firm, with goalkeeper Hannah Hampton making a crucial save to deny Clàudia Pina in the second half.

Extra time failed to produce a winner, with both sides cautious in their approach. The shootout saw Spain falter when Salma Paralluelo missed their fourth penalty, handing England the advantage. Kelly stepped up confidently to seal the victory, sparking wild celebrations among the players and fans. The win marks England’s second consecutive European title, a feat last achieved by Germany in 2013. Manager Sarina Wiegman becomes the first coach to lead a team to five consecutive major tournament finals.

Spain, despite their disappointment, can reflect on a strong campaign that showed their technical quality. Goalkeeper Cata Coll made several key saves, including a first-half stop to deny Lauren Hemp, but her early error nearly gifted England an opener. England’s resilience and tactical discipline ultimately proved decisive, with Russo and Kelly emerging as the standout performers. The match also set a record as the first Women’s EURO final to be decided by penalties since 1984.

The victory cements England’s status as a dominant force in women’s football, with Wiegman’s side now targeting further success at the 2027 World Cup. Spain, meanwhile, will aim to build on their progress after reaching back-to-back major finals. The tournament has further elevated the profile of women’s football across Europe, with record attendances and television viewership reported throughout the competition.