England retained their European crown in sensational fashion, defeating Spain in a nerve-shredding penalty shootout to win Euro 2025. The final, held on foreign soil, marked a momentous milestone: the first time any senior England team men’s or women’s has won a major tournament away from home.
The hero of the hour was once again Chloe Kelly. Having etched her name into history with the winner at Wembley in 2022, Kelly stepped up in the final moments to score the decisive penalty, securing England’s back-to-back European titles.
Spain had taken the lead through Mariona Caldentey’s header, but England refused to be beaten. Alessia Russo equalised in the second half, connecting with a pinpoint cross from Kelly. England then dug deep, absorbing pressure and taking the match to penalties. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton delivered under the spotlight, saving two Spanish spot-kicks including one from Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí.
Under the guidance of Sarina Wiegman, now a three-time European champion with two different nations, England proved their tactical maturity and mental strength. Wiegman’s bold decisions from team selections to mid-game adjustments all paid off, including picking an injured Lucy Bronze in a makeshift midfield role.
Throughout the tournament, England came from behind in every knockout round and became the first champions to lose their opening match. Their path was anything but easy, but it forged a unity and belief that culminated in a truly historic win. With grit, skill, and a relentless spirit, the Lionesses have cemented themselves as Europe’s dominant force and champions once again.
