England wins Women’s Euro 2025 final against Spain on penalties

In a penalty shootout, England defeated Spain 3-1 to win Euro 2025, successfully defending the title they won three years ago after a thrilling encounter that ended 1-1 after extra time.

Spain held on to the ball in Basel, Switzerland, and in the 25th minute, Ona Batlle crossed over to give Mariona Caldentey a lead.

England were struggling as a result of Lauren James’ ankle injury, but Kelly made a strong substitution for her just before the break.

In the 57th minute, Kelly assisted in closing down England’s porous left flank and headed home Alessia Russo’s cross, which was her perfect assist.

Spain continued to dominate the ball, but it was unable to score another goal before normal time. As the game came to an end with a 1-1 tie, they continued to probe and probe but were unable to break through the English defense.

Hannah Hampton stepped up and saved from Caldentey and then from Aitana Bonmati to put England in the lead. Catalina Coll saved Beth Mead’s effort, but the Spaniards were in for a great start.

Salma Paralluelo fired her kick wide of the target after Coll made another one-handed stop to block Leah Williamson.

Kelly’s heroics of 2022 were sparked by her winning the title at Wembley with an extra-time winner over Germany.

Kelly performed her signature prancing run-up in front of England’s fans before smashing the ball into the net and peeling away in agony.

I was cool, composed, and knew I was going to hit the back of the net, Kelly said, and I am so proud of this team, so proud of wearing this badge, and so proud to be English.

Spain was unable to win their first European title despite only four minutes into the tournament and not a second against England.

The game was decided by a penalty shootout in the final, which included England and Sweden, for the first time since the first edition in 1984.

England goalkeeper Hampton said: “This team is just unbelievable, incredible.