England delivered another heart-stopping performance to claim back-to-back UEFA Women’s European Championships, edging Spain 3-1 in a nerve-shredding penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in extra time. Chloe Kelly stepped up again, drilling home the decisive spot kick, while goalkeeper Hannah Hampton turned away two of Spain’s attempts.
Despite end-to-end action and several near-misses, neither side could break the deadlock again in extra time, sending the final to penalties where margins are razor-thin.
In the shootout, England converted three of their four spot kicks. Spain managed only one, as goalkeeper Hannah Hampton saved attempts from Mariona Caldentey and Aitana Bonmati, before substitute Salma Paralluelo saw her effort sail wide. Kelly, ice-cool under pressure, sealed England’s triumph with a confident strike into the bottom corner.
"I was cool, I was composed, and I knew I was going to hit the back of the net," Kelly said after the match. Her spot kicks also settled England’s semifinal clash, highlighting her knack for high-pressure moments.
Coach Sarina Wiegman added, "It was the most chaotic tournament we played." Wiegman now stands as the first manager to win three straight UEFA Women’s Euro titles in the competition’s modern era.
This final showcased resilience, tactical depth, and the growing global appeal of the women’s game. England’s victory not only cements their European dominance but also sends a powerful message to young athletes and fans worldwide: in sport, as in life, perseverance often makes the difference.
Reference(s):
England defeat Spain on penalties to retain title at Women's Euro 2025
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