In a nail-biting rematch of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final, Spain and England battled fiercely in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final, with the score tied 1-1 after 90 minutes, forcing extra time at St. Jakob-Park in Basel . The match, a clash of titans between the reigning World Cup champions (Spain) and the defending European champions (England), lived up to its billing as a tactical and emotional rollercoaster.
### **Match Highlights: Drama Unfolds**
- **Spain struck first** through Mariona Caldentey, capitalizing on their dominant possession (78% in the first half) and relentless pressure .
- **England equalized late** via Alessia Russo, who continued her clutch form after coming off the bench in the knockout stages .
- **Key substitutions**: Spain’s Claudia Pina, a hero of their Nations League win over England earlier this year, replaced Alexia Putellas, while England’s Chloe Kelly—who scored the 2022 Euro-winning goal—replaced an injured Lauren James .
- Heartbreak for Lucy Bronze: The England defender, playing her record-equaling 35th major tournament game, was subbed off in tears during extra time after a valiant effort .
Tactical Battleground
Spain’s midfield trio of Bonmatí, Guijarro, and Putellas controlled tempo, completing a tournament-high 621 passes per game . England, meanwhile, relied on their resilience, with substitutes contributing 5 goals in the tournament—a testament to Sarina Wiegman’s tactical flexibility .
Historical Stakes
- Spain aimed to become the first nation to hold the World Cup and Euro titles simultaneously since Germany (2001–2009) .
- England sought to join Germany as the only back-to-back Euro champions, with Wiegman eyeing a historic third title (after 2017 with the Netherlands and 2022 with England) .
What’s Next?
With penalties looming if the deadlock persists, the final mirrors their 2022 Euro quarterfinal, where England won 2-1 in extra time . Fans worldwide are glued to screens, witnessing a rivalry that’s redefining women’s football .
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