By Frank Ulom

BASEL (CONVERSEER) – The Lionesses of England successfully defended their Women’s Euro crown after edging Spain 3-1 on penalties in a gripping Euro 2025 final at the St. Jakob Park, Basel, Switzerland on Sunday.

England, winners of Euro 2022 in dramatic fashion, once again held their nerve from the spot, with Chloe Kelly delivering the decisive moment.

The winger, who famously scored the winning goal in the Euro 2022 final, converted the last penalty to secure a third consecutive European Championship title for manager Sarina Wiegman’s side.

The final had ended 1-1 after extra time. Spain, who beat England 1-0 in the 2023 World Cup final, looked destined to repeat the feat after Mariona Caldentey headed them in front midway through the first half.

The defending champions struggled to keep pace early on as La Roja dominated, but missed opportunities by Esther Gonzalez, Salma Paralluelo and Caldentey herself proved costly.

England stayed in contention and fought back when Kelly, on for the injured Lauren James, provided a superb cross for Alessia Russo to head home the equaliser. The momentum swung throughout extra time, but neither side could find a winner.

The shootout proved decisive once again for England, who had previously won their quarter-final on penalties. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton starred with two saves before Kelly sealed the trophy.

This triumph elevates Wiegman’s status as one of football’s most successful coaches, with the Dutch manager now boasting three consecutive European titles as England head coach.

Player Ratings (England)

Hannah Hampton (8/10): Brilliant saves in regular play and two key penalty stops.
Lucy Bronze (7/10): Recovered well after losing her marker for Spain’s opener.
Leah Williamson (7/10): Composed and reliable at the back.
Jess Carter (7/10): Steady defensive presence throughout.
Alex Greenwood (6/10): Struggled initially but improved as the match progressed.
Keira Walsh (7/10): Controlled midfield in key moments.
Georgia Stanway (6/10): Worked hard off the ball but struggled in duels.
Ella Toone (5/10): Limited influence going forward.
Lauren Hemp (5/10): Strong defensively but ineffective in attack.
Alessia Russo (7/10): Excellent equalising header.
Lauren James (4/10): Injured early and unable to make an impact.
Chloe Kelly (8/10): Match-changing performance, providing an assist and scoring the winning penalty.
Michelle Agyemang (5/10): Worked hard but limited impact.
Beth Mead (5/10): Struggled in an unusual midfield role.
Niamh Charles & Grace Clinton (N/A): Late substitutes.
Sarina Wiegman (6/10): Risky James selection, but tactical substitutions paid off.