UEFA Women’s EURO 2025, the reigning European women’s football champions defeated world champions Spain 1-1 (3-1 on penalties) in a thrilling final on Sunday, July 27.
Being the first to do so since Germany in 2013, the Lionesses have successfully defended their European title, both times with extra-time finals. They were crowned domestically at Wembley Stadium three years ago, and they have not lost their place on the throne at St. Jakob-Park in 2025.
Super Subs
Similar to its previous knockout stage matches against Italy and Sweden, England had fallen down in the first half, rallied in the second, and depended on its excellent substitutes, especially Kelly.
Alessia Russo’s header from a Kelly cross gave England the equalizer in the 57th minute, after Mariona Caldentey had given Spain the lead in the 25th minute with a cross from Ona Battle.
Even though Spain only fell behind for four minutes during the competition and not even for a single second against England the defending World Cup champion was unable to capture its first European championship.
Classic Arsenal Goals
Attackers for Arsenal enjoy scoring with headers that are positioned precisely after appealing crosses are supplied to the right spot.
On a rain-soaked field on a dark, dismal day, Spain took the lead on Sunday with a very English goal, a full back’s cross from the byline hitting the head of an Arsenal player to score.
The deft ball that put Athenea del Castillo in the penalty area and her vision to see Ona Batlle’s straight run into space were the highlights of Caldentey’s opening goal, which had a distinct Spanish flavor.
Caldentey was a member of the Arsenal squad that defeated a Barcelona squad with six starters, who were also playing for Spain on Sunday, in the May Women’s Champions League final. Three more Barcelona players were substituted by Spain.
Russo and Kelly, the attacking line for Arsenal in that final, joined forces to tie the Euro 2025 final. Russo headed Kelly’s right-footed cross from the left to the top corner of the Spain net after it fluttered toward his head.
