Home / Sports / Dominant Spain Stunned by England in Women's Euro Final Shootout
Dominant Spain Stunned by England in Women's Euro Final Shootout
27 Jul
Summary
- Spain was the most skillful and technically best team in the tournament but lost the final in a penalty shootout.
- Aitana Bonmatí, the tournament's best player, was hospitalized with viral meningitis just days before the final.
- Spain led for just 4 minutes across 6 games, while England led for barely 5 minutes in their 3 knockout round games.
In the recent 2023 Women's European Championship final, Spain, the 2023 World Cup winner and 2024 UEFA Nations League title holder, was stunned by England in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. Despite being the most skillful and technically best team in the tournament, Spain was unable to secure the European title for its stellar generation.
Spain trailed for just 4 minutes across the entire tournament, while England led for barely 5 minutes in their three knockout round games. Aitana Bonmatí, who was named the best player of the tournament, had to be hospitalized with a bout of viral meningitis just days before the final. Despite this setback, Spain's performance was impressive, with Mariona Caldentey scoring the opening goal and Esther Gonzalez creating several chances.
However, in the end, it was not enough, as England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton saved two of Spain's penalties in the shootout. Spain coach Montse Tomé expressed her disappointment, saying the team deserved more. Spain captain Irene Paredes acknowledged that England was "happy just to reach penalties" and that Spain "didn't perform well" in the shootout.
Despite the heartbreak, Spain remains a world champion and will soon begin preparations to defend their title in the 2027 World Cup, which will be held in Brazil. Bonmatí, a two-time Ballon d'Or winner, said this is a "golden generation" with a lot of young players, and they will be back to compete for the European title.
