England have won the Euro 2025 final, defeating Spain on penalties in Basel. Chloe Kelly, who had also scored the winner in the 2022 final, converted the decisive spot-kick after Hannah Hampton saved two Spanish penalties. The Lionesses came from behind for the third consecutive knockout match, levelling through Alessia Russo in the second half.
Spain dominated the first half and took the lead from a Mariona Caldentey header. England struggled to create chances and lost Lauren James to injury before half-time, replaced by Kelly. However, Kelly set up the equaliser in the 57th minute, crossing for Russo to head in. The game then went to extra time, where both sides had limited opportunities.
In the shootout, Hampton saved efforts from Caldentey and Aitana Bonmatí, while Salma Paralluelo fired wide. Kelly held her nerve to score the winning penalty, sparking celebrations. The victory secures Sarina Wiegman her third consecutive European title, having won with the Netherlands in 2017 and England in 2022.
England manager Sarina Wiegman made tactical adjustments, switching Lauren Hemp and James to opposite wings and deploying Hemp as an auxiliary full-back to counter Spain's possession game. The plan worked as England withstood Spanish pressure and grew into the match after the interval.
The win cements England's status as a dominant force in women's football, with the squad praised for their resilience and character. Kelly, once again the hero, described the triumph as a testament to the team's never-say-die attitude.
