Comeback Queens England made history on Sunday night, retaining their European title with a dramatic penalty shootout win over Spain to claim the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 trophy — their first major tournament triumph on foreign soil.
Hero of the Euro 2022 final, Chloe Kelly, stepped up once again, converting the decisive spot-kick in the shootout after Spain missed three consecutive penalties. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton produced two crucial saves to keep England alive, as the Lionesses completed a stunning comeback to lift the trophy in front of a packed crowd in Munich.
It was the perfect redemption arc for Sarina Wiegman’s side, who were beaten by Spain in the 2023 World Cup final. The Lionesses, resilient throughout a tournament that tested them at every turn, showed their trademark grit and belief once more.
Road to Redemption
England’s road to the final had been far from smooth. After losing their opening group match to France, they clawed back from 2-0 down to defeat Sweden on penalties in the quarter-finals and left it until the final moments of extra time to edge past Italy in the semis.
And for long stretches of Sunday’s final, it looked like the comeback would fall short. Spain dominated the first half and took the lead through Mariona Caldentey’s precise header. England struggled for rhythm, and Wiegman’s decision to start Lauren James, who was returning from injury, looked questionable.
But Wiegman — calm and composed on the touchline as ever — made key changes. James was replaced by Chloe Kelly, who quickly turned the tide. Her curling cross found Alessia Russo, whose glancing header brought England level.
From there, it became a gritty, defensive performance. England dug deep, blocked shots, and absorbed pressure, all with an eye on the looming shootout. When the moment came, they didn’t blink.
Wiegman’s Legacy Grows
This triumph makes Sarina Wiegman the first manager to win three successive UEFA Women’s European Championships — one with the Netherlands (2017) and now a second with England. The Dutch tactician has now reached the final in four straight major tournaments, further cementing her reputation as one of football’s greatest minds.
Player Performances: Hemp, Hampton, Kelly Shine
“She’s the calm in every storm,” one England player remarked post-match. “When things go wrong, she finds the right answer.”
Lauren Hemp was England’s standout performer across the 120 minutes. Her pace and relentless pressing caused problems throughout, especially in the first half when little else was clicking for the Lionesses.
Chloe Kelly’s introduction changed the game. She not only provided the assist for the equaliser but also confidently buried her penalty to secure the win.
In defence, Jess Carter returned to the starting XI after missing the semi-final and delivered a calm, composed performance, helping keep Spain at bay in extra time.
And in goal, Hannah Hampton emerged as England’s shootout saviour — denying Spain twice from the spot and proving the faith in her was well placed.
Stat Sheet Highlights
England trailed in all three knockout games and led for only four minutes and 52 seconds throughout the entire knockout stage. England became the first team to win a Women’s Euro final after trailing at half-time. The Lionesses are the first nation to win three games in a single Euros via extra time. Ten goal involvements came via substitutes for England at Euro 2025 — the most ever at a tournament since records began in 2013. Six of the last 10 goals in European Championship finals have been scored by Women’s Super League players.
Spain’s Heartbreak
For Spain, it was another cruel twist on a journey that promised so much. Despite being World Champions and riding a 10-match unbeaten streak into the final, they were once again denied continental glory by England.
Having failed to convert their dominance into a commanding lead, missed opportunities haunted them — and the penalty shootout exposed a lack of composure under pressure.
Still, with a youthful core and attacking flair, Spain remain among the world’s elite. Their focus now shifts to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where they’ll aim to defend their world title.
What’s Next?
The Lionesses will return home to a hero’s welcome, with celebrations planned in London. Wiegman, under contract until the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, will now begin building towards completing the set on the global stage.
For now, England can celebrate a new chapter in their golden era — a team that may stumble, but never stays down. Champions once again.
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