England has successfully defended its Women’s European Championship crown, edging past Spain 3–1 in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1–1 draw in extra time.
The final in Rotterdam delivered high tension and elite competition, as both teams battled fiercely for continental glory. Spain struck first with a stunning first-half header from Mariona Caldentey, but England responded with determination—Alessia Russo leveling the score with a powerful header of her own in the second half.
Despite several promising chances in regular and extra time, neither side could break the deadlock, setting the stage for a decisive shootout.
Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton emerged as the match-winner, producing two crucial saves to deny Spain and turn the tide in England’s favor. While Beth Mead and Leah Williamson missed their attempts, Alex Greenwood, Niamh Charles, and Chloe Kelly all found the net—Kelly calmly slotting home the decisive penalty to clinch the victory.
Spain, meanwhile, struggled from the spot. Only Patricia Guijarro converted her effort, while Caldentey, Aitana Bonmatí, and Salma Paralluelo failed to beat Hampton.
The win marks another milestone for head coach Sarina Wiegman and her team, who showed remarkable composure and resilience under pressure. England’s comeback performance, defensive discipline, and Hampton’s heroics ensured that the Lionesses lifted the trophy once again, cementing their dominance in European women’s football.
