England’s Lionesses win Women’s Euro 2025 after dramatic penalty shootout
England’s Lionesses have been crowned UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 champions after defeating World Cup holders Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout at St Jakob-Park in Basel.
The final, which saw defending champions England face their 2023 World Cup rivals, ended 1–1 after 120 minutes, with Chloe Kelly netting the decisive spot-kick to secure the victory.
Match Summary
Spain took the lead in the 25th minute through forward Mariona Caldentey, capitalising on an early defensive lapse from England. The Lionesses, however, found their rhythm in the second half, with Alessia Russo scoring a clinical equaliser shortly after the restart.
Despite late pressure and chances from both sides, the match remained level through extra time, sending the final to a nerve-shredding penalty shootout.
Goalkeeper Mary Earps made a crucial save, and Kelly, hero of England’s Euro 2022 triumph, stepped up once again to hammer home the winner — sealing England’s second consecutive European title.
Reactions
Captain Leah Williamson, who missed the 2023 World Cup due to injury but returned to lead her side, spoke emotionally before the match about what victory would mean:
“We came to the tournament, we wanted to be here, we wanted to be in it until the end and have a chance to fight for that trophy… The respect for the women’s game, the respect for women and women’s sport in general continues, and we can try our best to continue to elevate that.”
Manager Sarina Wiegman, who has now won three successive Euros titles (2017 with the Netherlands, 2022 and 2025 with England), admitted to feeling the pressure despite her composed sideline appearance:
“I’m having a heart attack too, I just don’t show it.”
Historic Victory
- England are now the first senior national side to win a major football trophy away from home, having previously lifted the Euro 2022 title at Wembley.
- Wiegman becomes the first manager in history to win three UEFA Women’s European Championships.
- The victory marks revenge for the Lionesses, who were beaten by Spain in the 2023 World Cup final in Sydney.
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