Kelly’s Spot-Kick Secures England’s Euro 2025 Triumph Over Spain

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England’s Lionesses have successfully retained their UEFA Women’s Euro title, defeating Spain in a nail-biting final in Basel. After a 1–1 draw across 120 minutes, England held their nerve in the penalty shootout, winning 3–1, with Chloe Kelly once again scoring the decisive kick and goalkeeper Hannah Hampton delivering two crucial saves.

Spain struck first in the 25th minute through a well-taken header by Mariona Caldentey, reflecting their dominant possession and sharpness in midfield. However, England responded in the second half when Kelly turned provider, crossing for Alessia Russo to head home the equaliser.

Despite Spain’s tactical edge and territorial control, England’s defence held firm through extra time, forcing the final into penalties.

In the shootout, Spain initially gained an advantage when Cata Coll saved Beth Mead’s opening attempt. But the momentum quickly shifted, Hampton denied both Caldentey and Aitana Bonmatí, while Salma Paralluelo missed the target entirely. With the chance to seal it, Chloe Kelly calmly slotted her effort into the bottom corner, sparking jubilant celebrations.

Head coach Sarina Wiegman praised her side’s mentality, describing the campaign as “the most chaotic tournament of my career”. The Lionesses had reached the final after a string of tense matches, including comeback victories against Sweden and Italy, both requiring late goals and penalty drama.

Hampton’s composure under pressure earned her the Player of the Match accolade, while 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang was named Young Player of the Tournament for her impact off the bench throughout the competition.

England’s victory is a historic milestone, making them the first senior national football team, men’s or women’s, to win a major tournament outside the UK. It also highlights a broader shift in tournament dynamics: while Spain may have played the more technical football, England’s success came through discipline, tactical organisation, and a deep bench ready to change games.

Wiegman’s system, built on unity, adaptability, and mental resilience, once again proved effective at the highest level. Despite injuries, squad rotation, and moments of adversity, England found ways to win, often in the most dramatic circumstances.

As the final whistle blew and England lifted the trophy, there was a strong sense that this win was not only a sporting achievement but a defining moment in the ongoing evolution and growth of women’s football in Britain. The Lionesses showed that with character, clarity, and composure, even the most formidable opponents can be overcome.