BASEL, Switzerland — On July 27, 2025, St. Jakob-Park, affectionately known as "Joggeli" to Basel locals, hosted a gripping Women’s Euro Cup final between England and Spain. The match, a showcase of skill and resilience, ended in a 1-1 draw after extra time, with England clinching a 3-1 victory in a tense penalty shootout to claim the coveted trophy.
The atmosphere in Basel was electric, with over 37,000 fans packing the stadium, their roars echoing through the Swiss night. England, led by Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman in her remarkable fifth consecutive final, faced a formidable Spanish side. Both teams had battled fiercely to reach this stage, and the match lived up to its billing as a clash of titans.
Spain struck first in the 25th minute. Mariona Caldentey, with her trademark composure, found the back of the net after a swift counterattack, giving Spain a 1-0 lead. The goal silenced the English supporters momentarily, as Spain’s intricate passing and relentless pressure threatened to dominate. England, however, refused to buckle, with their defense holding firm against wave after wave of Spanish attacks.
As the clock ticked toward the 60-minute mark, England’s persistence paid off. Alessia Russo rose above the Spanish defense to meet a perfectly delivered cross, powering a pinpoint header past the goalkeeper to equalize at 1-1. The Joggeli erupted as England’s fans sensed a turning tide. Russo’s goal injected new life into the Lionesses, who pushed forward with renewed vigor.
The second half saw both teams create chances, but stellar goalkeeping and resolute defending kept the score level. As full time approached, neither side could find a breakthrough, and the match rolled into extra time. The additional 30 minutes were a test of endurance, with players on both sides visibly fatigued but unrelenting. Spain’s slick passing met England’s gritty determination, yet the deadlock persisted.
With no further goals, the final’s fate hinged on a penalty shootout. England’s preparation and mental fortitude shone through. The Lionesses converted three of their attempts with clinical precision, while Spain faltered, managing only one successful strike. Chloe Kelly stepped up for England’s decisive penalty, coolly slotting the ball home to spark wild celebrations. The big cup was England’s to bring home.
Sarina Wiegman’s tactical acumen was pivotal. Her team, often forced to crawl through the eye of a needle in earlier matches, displayed remarkable resilience. “This group has heart,” Wiegman said post-match. “They fought for every inch, and I’m incredibly proud.” For England, the victory marked a historic triumph, their first Women’s Euro Cup title since 2022, cementing their status as a powerhouse in women’s football.
Spain, despite the loss, showed why they are a force to be reckoned with. Caldentey’s early goal and their fluid play kept England on edge, but their penalty misses proved costly. The Spanish players, gracious in defeat, vowed to return stronger.
As the Joggeli faithful cheered, England lifted the trophy under the Basel sky, a moment of glory etched in football history. The Lionesses’ journey, marked by grit and unity, culminated in a victory that will inspire a new generation of players and fans alike.
