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Sports and Competition
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England vs Spain - 2025 Women's Euros Final: Live score and updates

England Edges Out Spain in Dramatic 2025 Women's Euros Final Showdown

In a pulsating climax to the 2025 UEFA Women's European Championship held in Switzerland, England emerged victorious against Spain in a hard-fought final that will be remembered as one of the greatest in the tournament's history. The Lionesses, led by manager Sarina Wiegman, secured a 2-1 win over the reigning world champions, avenging their defeat in the 2023 World Cup final and claiming their second consecutive Euros title. The match, played at the sold-out St. Jakob-Park in Basel, was a showcase of tactical brilliance, individual heroics, and unrelenting drama, with both teams trading blows in a contest that went down to the wire.

The build-up to the final had been electric, with England arriving as defending champions after a dominant run through the tournament. They had dispatched hosts Switzerland in the semi-finals with a convincing 3-1 victory, thanks to goals from Beth Mead and Alessia Russo. Spain, on the other hand, had overcome a tough path, including a penalty shootout win against Germany in the semis, powered by the midfield mastery of Aitana Bonmatí and the finishing prowess of Salma Paralluelo. The narrative was ripe for a rematch of epic proportions, pitting England's resilient defense against Spain's possession-based flair.

As the match kicked off under the floodlights, Spain asserted early dominance, controlling possession and probing England's backline with intricate passing. In the opening minutes, Bonmatí orchestrated a swift move that saw Paralluelo test goalkeeper Mary Earps with a low drive from the edge of the box. England, however, absorbed the pressure and grew into the game. Leah Williamson, captaining the side, was a rock at the heart of defense, marshalling her teammates with poise. The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when Lauren Hemp capitalized on a rare Spanish error. A misplaced pass from Irene Paredes allowed Hemp to break free on the left flank. She cut inside and unleashed a curling shot that nestled into the top corner, sending the English fans into rapture. It was a goal that epitomized Hemp's tournament form – dynamic, precise, and clinical.

Spain, undeterred, responded with characteristic intensity. They equalized just before halftime in the 42nd minute through a moment of brilliance from Alexia Putellas. The two-time Ballon d'Or winner, who had been nursing a minor injury earlier in the tournament, latched onto a through ball from Bonmatí and slotted it past Earps with a deft finish. The goal highlighted Spain's ability to transition quickly from defense to attack, a hallmark of their style under coach Montserrat Tomé. As the teams headed into the break level at 1-1, the tension was palpable, with both sides knowing that the next goal could decide the destiny of the trophy.

The second half began with England showing renewed vigor. Wiegman made a tactical tweak, pushing Georgia Stanway higher up the pitch to disrupt Spain's midfield rhythm. This adjustment paid dividends as England began to win more second balls and create overloads on the wings. In the 58th minute, the Lionesses regained the lead through a set-piece masterclass. A corner from Hemp was met by the head of Millie Bright, whose effort was saved spectacularly by Cata Coll. However, the rebound fell kindly to Russo, who smashed it home from close range. Russo's goal, her fourth of the tournament, underscored her importance as England's focal point in attack, blending physicality with sharp instincts.

Spain threw everything at England in the ensuing minutes, ramping up the pressure with wave after wave of attacks. Paralluelo came agonizingly close in the 65th minute, her header from a Putellas cross clipping the crossbar. The Spanish bench, including substitutes like Jenni Hermoso, urged their team forward, but England's defense held firm. Lucy Bronze, playing in what could be her final major tournament, was immense, making crucial blocks and interceptions. A controversial moment arose in the 72nd minute when Spain appealed for a penalty after Bonmatí went down under a challenge from Keira Walsh. The referee waved play on, and VAR confirmed no foul, much to the frustration of the Spanish contingent.

As the clock ticked down, England adopted a more pragmatic approach, soaking up pressure and looking to counter. Spain's desperation led to openings, and in the 85th minute, substitute Ella Toone nearly sealed it with a long-range effort that forced a fingertip save from Coll. The final minutes were a frenzy of action, with Spain earning a series of corners and free-kicks. In stoppage time, Putellas had a golden opportunity from a free-kick, but her shot sailed just over the bar. The referee's final whistle sparked jubilant scenes among the English players and fans, as confetti rained down on the pitch.

Post-match, Sarina Wiegman praised her team's resilience, stating that the victory was a testament to their growth since the World Cup loss. "We've learned from our defeats, and today we showed heart and quality," she said. Leah Williamson, lifting the trophy, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the squad's unity. On the Spanish side, Montserrat Tomé acknowledged the fine margins, commending her players' effort despite the heartbreak. Alexia Putellas, gracious in defeat, noted that the match was a step forward for women's football globally.

This final not only crowned England as back-to-back European champions but also amplified the sport's rising profile. With over 40,000 in attendance and millions watching worldwide, it was a celebration of skill, passion, and progress. England's triumph adds another chapter to their storied rivalry with Spain, setting the stage for future battles, perhaps at the next World Cup. For now, the Lionesses roar loudest, their legacy etched in Euros gold.

The match statistics painted a picture of a closely contested affair: Spain enjoyed 62% possession, but England edged shots on target (6-5) and created more clear-cut chances. Key performers included Hemp, who was named Player of the Match for her goal and assist, and Bonmatí, whose vision kept Spain ticking. Injuries were minimal, though Paralluelo limped off late with a suspected knock, but nothing serious was reported.

Reflecting on the tournament as a whole, England's path to glory was marked by consistency. They topped their group with wins over Denmark, Italy, and Finland, before edging out France in the quarters and Switzerland in the semis. Spain's journey featured dramatic comebacks, including a 2-1 win over the Netherlands in the quarters. The final's intensity mirrored the tournament's high standards, with emerging talents like England's Maya Le Tissier and Spain's Claudia Pina making impacts off the bench.

In the broader context, this Euros highlighted the evolution of women's football. Tactical innovations, such as Spain's high press and England's counter-attacking prowess, were on full display. Off the pitch, discussions around player welfare, equal pay, and infrastructure investment gained traction, with UEFA pledging increased funding for grassroots programs.

As the celebrations continue, England's victory serves as inspiration for aspiring players. The Lionesses have not only defended their crown but elevated the game, proving that determination and teamwork can conquer even the mightiest foes. Spain, though defeated, remain a force, their style influencing teams worldwide. The 2025 Euros final will be replayed in highlights reels for years, a testament to the beautiful game's enduring appeal. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full Daily Mail Article at:
[ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-14940527/England-vs-Spain-2025-Womens-Euros-Final-Live-Result.html ]