Spain's formidable women's national team have emphatically retained their UEFA Women's Nations League title, delivering a masterclass performance to sweep aside Germany 3-0 in the final's second leg at the Estadio Metropolitano in Madrid.
A Statement Victory Without Bonmatí
Despite entering the crucial fixture without their injured Ballon d'Or winner, Aitana Bonmatí, the world champions displayed their immense squad depth. Any concerns about their potency were swiftly dismissed as they produced a slick, attacking display that thrilled a record-breaking home crowd of 55,843 spectators.
Captain Alexia Putellas, visibly moved by the support, reflected on the historic night. "It's one of the most magical nights we've lived, one of the best nights of my career," she said. "At this point, some of us have been playing for the national team for 13 years and never imagined this. It says a lot about what we've done for women's football in Spain."
Second-Half Blitz Seals the Trophy
After a goalless first leg in Germany, the tie was decisively settled in a devastating 13-minute spell after half-time. The breakthrough came when Clàudia Pina cut inside onto her right foot and fired a low drive that German goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger could not keep out.
The lead was quickly doubled by Vicky López, who found space in the area to arch a fine finish into the net. Pina then completed the scoring and her brace, capitalising on a loose German pass to fire ruthlessly into the top corner, sealing a 3-0 victory on the night and the trophy overall.
The win marks a swift return to the winners' podium for Spain after the heartbreak of their penalty shootout defeat to England in the Euro 2025 final. It also delivers a major trophy for new head coach Sonia Bermúdez within her first four months in charge.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
This comprehensive victory reinforces Spain's position as the world's top-ranked side and sends a clear message of intent as they build towards the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. The emotional night was capped by a rapturous reception for substitute Jenni Hermoso, recently recalled to the squad, who stated: "We continue to show we are the best team in the world."
For Germany, despite moments of promise on the counter-attack, a lack of cutting edge proved costly. Their captain, Giulia Gwinn, acknowledged the frustration: "It's frustrating when you put so much effort into the game and don't get the reward... It's a bit too harsh, but we put up a very good fight."
Spain's dominance in women's football continues, having now won three major trophies in just over two years, firmly establishing a legacy of success for the current generation.
