Introduction
Spain carved out a dramatic 1-0 victory over Germany in Zurich to reach the Women’s Euro 2025 final—an achievement that marks a historic first for the Spanish women’s national team. The match, billed as a clash between two continental powerhouses, delivered on both drama and quality, ultimately decided by a moment of brilliance from Aitana Bonmatí in extra time. Spain will now face England in Basel on Sunday, a repeat of the 2023 World Cup final.
Match Overview
A Tactical Chess Match
From the outset, Spain imposed their signature possession-based style, dominating the ball and patiently probing for openings against Germany’s typically disciplined defensive block. Although the Germans ceded control of possession, their composure and willingness to launch quick counterattacks ensured a cagey contest, with both teams acutely aware of what was at stake.
Spain’s captain Irene Paredes nearly broke the deadlock in the first half with a header that struck the post. Germany, fielding a lineup stretched by injuries and suspensions, soaked up long periods of pressure but remained resolute, with goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger making several key interventions.
On the counter, Germany’s Klara Bühl and Giovanna Hoffmann managed to threaten the Spanish defense, but were repeatedly denied by Spain’s goalkeeper Cata Coll. As the match wore on, fatigue, tension, and missed opportunities mounted on both sides.
Moments That Defined the Match
- First Half: Spain initiated attacking play with intricate passing, but found Germany’s defense stubborn. Irene Paredes’ header onto the post was the first major scare for Berger and her backline.
- Second Half: The tempo quickened, with Bühl getting behind Spain’s rearguard only to direct her shot straight at Coll. Germany’s best chance came late in regular time as Carlotta Wamser forced a scrambling save from Coll off a deflected effort.
- Full Time: After 90 minutes, the deadlock remained, setting the stage for extra time.
Extra Time Brilliance
As both sides tired, the probability of penalties increased. But in the 113th minute, Aitana Bonmatí seized her moment. Collecting the ball in the left channel, she spotted an inviting gap at the near post that Berger had left exposed. With remarkable composure and precision, Bonmatí whipped the ball from a sharp angle into the back of the net, sparking jubilant celebrations from the Spanish players and supporters.
Germany frantically sought an equalizer in the dying minutes, throwing bodies forward and threatening from set pieces. However, Spain held firm to secure a famous victory over the tournament’s traditional giants.
Key Takeaways
- Spain Make History: This was Spain’s first-ever victory over Germany in a major tournament, underlining their status as a new power in women’s football and confirming the growth seen since their maiden World Cup triumph in 2023.
- Aitana Bonmatí’s Decisive Moment: Already one of the game’s standout stars, Bonmatí’s winning goal was a fitting reflection of her all-round class.
- German Defiance Foiled: Despite missing chances and battling personnel absences, Germany delivered a performance of grit and organization, but lacked a finishing touch in crucial moments.
- Final Awaits: Spain’s win sets up a highly-anticipated final against England, promising a rematch loaded with narrative and history.
Match Stats
| Spain | Germany | |
| Score | 1 | 0 |
| Possession | 61% | 39% |
| Shots (on target) | 20 (7) | 14 (4) |
| Corners | 8 | 5 |
| Fouls | 11 | 13 |
Post-Match Reactions
Players and coaches on both sides acknowledged the intensity and quality of the contest. Spain’s coach, Montse Tomé, spoke of her pride in “breaking the German ceiling” and hailed her squad’s mentality and technical excellence. Meanwhile, Germany’s Christian Wück lamented his team’s missed chances but admired their character, insisting that the squad would rebound stronger for future tournaments.
Conclusion
Spain’s narrow win over Germany was the culmination of years of development and ambition, at last banishing the shadow cast by years of German dominance in the women’s game. As fans await the showpiece final against England, Spain’s journey already stands as a testament to the rising standards, drama, and unpredictability of international women’s football.