BASEL, Switzerland – England’s Lionesses cemented their status as comeback queens, overcoming a first-half deficit to defeat tournament favorites Spain 3-1 on penalties in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final at St Jakob-Park. The victory marked England’s second European Championship title, following their triumph at Euro 2022.The final was a chaotic affair, with Spain dominating early.
In the 25th minute, Mariona Caldentey’s header, capping a swift move down the right, silenced the Lionesses and their thousands of fans in Basel. Memories of Spain’s 1-0 win in the 2023 FIFA World Cup final loomed large, as England struggled to find rhythm. “Not again,” muttered fans, bracing for disappointment.But Sarina Wiegman’s side, known for their resilience, refused to fold.
Alessia Russo leveled the score in the second half with a powerful header, assisted by Chloe Kelly, forcing extra time. Despite Spain’s statistical edge—68% possession and 22 shots to England’s 12—the Lionesses’ grit shone through.
After a grueling 120 minutes, the match went to penalties.Chloe Kelly, England’s hero from Euro 2022, sealed the victory with her trademark prancing run-up, slotting the decisive penalty past Spain’s goalkeeper. Goalkeeper Mary Earps also played a pivotal role, saving two Spanish spot kicks.
“Football is chaos,” Wiegman told the BBC post-match, reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster. “But this team never gives up.”Kelly, who earned Player of the Match honors, beamed with pride. “The first time was so nice, we had to do it twice,” the 27-year-old said, clutching her gold medal.
The victory capped a tournament where England repeatedly defied the odds, including comeback wins against Germany in the quarterfinals and France in the semifinals.For Spain, the defeat was a bitter pill, ending their hopes of adding a European title to their 2023 World Cup crown.
England’s triumph, watched by millions back home, sparked wild celebrations, with fans chanting “Sweet Caroline” into the Swiss night. The Lionesses’ roar echoed far beyond Basel, cementing their legacy as champions once more.