England’s Lionesses have made history by becoming the first senior English team to successfully defend a major international trophy on foreign soil. In a night defined by extreme tension and grit, Sarina Wiegman’s squad defeated world champions Spain in a penalty shootout to claim the Euro 2025 title. The match, held at St. Jakob-Park in Basel, concluded with a 1-1 draw after extra time before England triumphed 3-1 from the spot.
The final served as a masterclass in resilience for an England side that has battled injuries and setbacks throughout the tournament. Spain dominated possession early on and took a deserved lead in the 25th minute. Mariona Caldentey found space in the box to power a header past Hannah Hampton, leaving the defending champions reeling. England’s struggles intensified when star playmaker Lauren James was forced off with an injury just before the interval.
However, the introduction of Chloe Kelly changed the momentum of the game. Kelly, the hero of the Euro 2022 final, provided the spark England desperately needed. In the 57th minute, her precise cross found Alessia Russo, who directed a brilliant header into the net to level the score. The equalizer ignited the traveling English fans and shifted the pressure back onto the Spanish side. Despite late surges from both teams, the deadlock remained through ninety minutes and a grueling period of extra time.
The ensuing penalty shootout was a display of psychological warfare and individual brilliance. England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton delivered a player-of-the-match performance by saving two Spanish penalties. Spain also saw a crucial effort from Salma Paralluelo drift wide of the post. While England faced their own nerves—including a retaken and subsequently saved penalty from Beth Mead—they remained the more composed side.
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The stage was eventually set for Chloe Kelly to repeat her legendary heroics. Stepping up for the final kick, she utilized her signature prancing run-up before firing the ball into the top corner. Her clinical finish sparked wild celebrations across the pitch and in the stands. This victory marks Sarina Wiegman’s third consecutive European Championship title as a manager, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest coaches in football history.
This triumph is particularly sweet for the Lionesses as it offers redemption for their defeat to Spain in the 2023 World Cup final. Beyond the scoreboard, the tournament showcased the depth of the English squad, with young talents like Michelle Agyemang earning accolades for their contributions. As the team returns home to a victory parade and a reception at 10 Downing Street, they leave behind a tournament that proved they could win by any means necessary. The Lionesses have not only defended their crown but have also inspired a new generation of players across the globe.
