UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final: England and Spain to renew rivalry in blockbuster showdown

New Delhi: England will have a shot at redemption as they face Spain in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final. This will not be a just another final rather a mouth-watering rematch of the 2023 World Cup final. Spain secured their spot with a tense extra-time win over Germany while England advanced after seeing off Italy, ensuring the two best teams in Europe will meet again on Sunday.

For the Lionesses, memories of that World Cup heartbreak are still fresh. They were outplayed by a slick Spanish side in Sydney, falling short of becoming the first senior England team since 1966 to lift a World Cup. Spain’s captain Olga Carmona scored the decisive goal in that final, punishing a rare lapse in England’s midfield.

Different England, familiar Spain

After that loss much has changed for England as seven players who started against Spain two years ago featured in the semi-final against Italy but this England team feels different. The past year has seen key retirements including goalkeeper Mary Earps and midfielder Fran Kirby while captain Millie Bright made herself unavailable just before the tournament. This has paved the way for new faces like Michelle Agyemang to step in, symbolising the “new era” England are embracing.

Meanwhile, Spain remained largely the same on the pitch despite a change in leadership, with Montse Tome stepping in as head coach. Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati continues to orchestrate the midfield while Alexia Putellas, who started the World Cup final on the bench, is now a key figure. Esther Gonzalez has emerged as one of the stars of this tournament, leading the race for the Golden Boot.

Can England overcome Spain’s control?

Spain’s ability to dominate possession will be a central challenge for England. In their semi-final win over Germany, Spain held nearly 67% of the ball but were forced out of their comfort zone at times. Germany’s high press revealed Spain’s flaws which might have opened a potential path for England to disrupt Spain’s rhythm.

The Lionesses have proven they can beat Spain, having defeated them at Wembley in February. Their head-to-head record is encouraging with just five losses in 19 competitive fixtures. This gives England confidence as they look to defend their European crown and reclaim their place at the top of the women’s game.

Battle of styles and mentality

The final will not just be about technical skills but also mental resilience. Spain will look to complete a treble of major trophies after winning the World Cup and Nations League while England will aim to assert their status as European champions. The pressure is on the Lionesses to deliver as their performances continue to carry the hopes of growing women’s football in England.

Well, both sides know each other well and Sunday’s clash promises to be a gripping battle of styles, composure and big-match temperament. Whether England will be able to redeem themselves or Spain will continue their dominance remains to be seen, but one thing is certain that this is shaping up to be a final that could be remembered for years to come.