England are 2025 European champions: Lionesses beat Spain in penalty shootout
England were crowned back-to-back European champions after beating Spain on penalties in the thrilling final of Euro 2025 on Sunday.
In a repeat of the 2023 World Cup final, the two best teams in the competition faced off, with the Lionesses avenging that heartbreaking defeat in Sydney two years ago.
La Roja looked the better side overall and took a first-half lead but Sarina Wiegman’s team fought back, with Alessia Russo equalising after the break.
After a nervy 120 minutes, Hannah Hampton was the hero in the shootout, saving three penalties, giving Chloe Kelly the chance to score the winning spot-kick.
England’s counter-attacking gameplan was clear to see from the off and initially it worked with Russo forcing a great save from Cata Coll in the opening minutes.
Lauren Hemp ought to have scored herself when she stole the ball in the box, but the Lionesses were made to pay for the missed chances as Spain grew into the game. and, on 25 minutes, Mariona Caldentey powered a header in from close range.
Lauren James was a fitness doubt going into the final and her match was done before the break, pulling up, with super sub Kelly taking her place.
It proved to be lucky break, as just before the hour mark, Kelly whipped in fantastic cross for Russo who got her header just right to find the equaliser and send England fans wild.
End-to-end action followed but the match had to be settled on penalties and England had a disastrous start as Beth Mead scored the first spot-kick but then had to retake it because of a double touch, with Coll saving the next effort.
World Affairs Correspondent
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