The stage is set for an electrifying Euro 2025 final as England and Spain prepare to face off for the ultimate European football glory. A thrilling repeat of the 2023 World Cup final, this matchup promises to deliver drama, passion, and high stakes, as both teams have a lot to prove on the field.
Spain’s dramatic extra-time victory over Germany in the semi-finals means they will meet the Lionesses on Sunday. England, reeling from their World Cup heartbreak two years ago, are seeking redemption and a chance to defend their European crown, won in 2022. The rivalry between these two teams has reached new heights, and former players are buzzing with excitement.
“It’s going to be incredible,” says former England forward Ellen White. “On England’s day, they can beat anyone, and the same goes for Spain. This match-up is amazing, and I’m so excited to see it.”
Spain, aiming for a treble of major titles after winning the Nations League in 2024, are not just defending their World Cup win but looking to cement their place as the most dominant team in women’s football. Meanwhile, England, who became European champions for the first time in 2022, are keen to hold on to their crown.
“I’m so buzzing for the girls,” adds former captain Steph Houghton. “With the squad we have, there’s no reason we can’t beat Spain and defend our title.”
Two years ago, England’s hopes of becoming the first senior England team since 1966 to win a World Cup were dashed by Spain. The Lionesses were outplayed in the final by a creative and clinical Spanish team. Spain’s Olga Carmona scored the only goal of the match, exploiting a mistake by England’s Lucy Bronze in midfield.
Despite that painful memory, England’s recent form shows they are ready for a new challenge. Earlier this year, they defeated Spain 1-0 in a friendly at Wembley – the last team to beat Spain. However, Spain got the better of them in June, winning 2-1, meaning the Lionesses will have to bring their A-game to the final.
“I don’t think England will see themselves as underdogs,” says former England defender Fara Williams. “They’re the European champions. Spain may have beaten them in the World Cup final, but this is England’s trophy, and they’ll fight hard to keep it.”
England’s squad has undergone some significant changes since the World Cup. Key players, such as goalkeeper Mary Earps, midfielder Fran Kirby, and defender Millie Bright, have either retired or been unavailable for selection. This has led to the emergence of new talents like super-sub Michelle Agyemang, who has impressed in this tournament.
“England is entering a new era,” Earps said, referring to the squad’s youth and fresh faces. But with that comes the added pressure of living up to the legacy of past successes.
Williams notes, “The pressure on the Lionesses is immense. They now carry the responsibility of growing women’s football in England. But they didn’t have that pressure in 2022, and now they do. It’s a lot for them to deal with.”
Spain’s squad remains largely unchanged, with key figures like Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas continuing to shine. However, the absence of Jenni Hermoso, who missed a penalty in the World Cup final and was at the center of a controversial incident involving Spain’s former football federation president Luis Rubiales, adds a twist to Spain’s storyline.
Despite this, Spain’s strength remains in their midfield dominance, where they control the tempo and possession of the game. Their semi-final match against Germany showed a more direct side to their play, indicating that they can adapt if pressed.
Germany’s Josie Henning, a former defender, believes that the key battle will take place in midfield. “If you want to beat Spain, you need to press them collectively, otherwise, they’ll control the game,” she said.
As the final approaches, England manager Sarina Wiegman must find a way to disrupt Spain’s flowing possession style, which has been their trademark throughout this tournament. The challenge is clear: stifle Spain’s creative midfield and prevent them from dictating the pace.
For England, it’s about turning the page on the heartbreak of the World Cup final and focusing on the present. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, they know they have the tools to claim another European title.
“It’s a new start,” Houghton says. “This final is not about the World Cup loss. It’s a new opportunity to make history again.”
As Sunday’s final looms, all eyes will be on the Wembley pitch, where England and Spain will battle it out for the Euro 2025 crown. One thing is for sure: whoever wins, the football world is in for a treat.
