England retained their European title in dramatic fashion on Sunday, defeating Spain in a penalty shootout after a tense 1-1 draw following extra time in the Euro 2025 final in Basel, Switzerland.
Spain dominated possession early and struck first in the 25th minute, with Mariona Caldentey heading home from Ona Batlle’s cross after catching the England defense flat-footed.
England struggled to find rhythm, particularly after Lauren James limped off with an ankle injury. But her replacement, Chloe Kelly, made an instant impact. Just before half-time, she stabilized England’s left side, and in the 57th minute, delivered a perfect cross for Alessia Russo, who headed home the equalizer.
Spain continued to control the game deep into extra time but couldn’t break through England’s resilient defense, sending the final to penalties.
The shootout swung back and forth. Spain’s Catalina Coll saved Beth Mead’s opening effort, but England keeper Hannah Hampton responded brilliantly, stopping both Caldentey and Aitana Bonmatí. Coll denied Leah Williamson to keep Spain alive, but substitute Salma Paralluelo then fired wide.
With the match on the line, Chloe Kelly stepped up and calmly converted — just as she had in Euro 2022 — to secure England’s back-to-back European championships.
