World champions Spain opened their UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 campaign with a statement 5-0 thrashing of Portugal in Bern, with 32-year-old forward Esther González becoming Spain’s oldest tournament scorer.
Her early flick inside two minutes set the tone before 18-year-old Vicky López doubled the lead, marking the youngest scorer in Spanish Euro history.
Captain Alexia Putellas—back after missing Euro 2022 due to injury—added a third, showcasing elite control and leadership. González netted her second just before halftime, and substitute Cristina Martin-Prieto sealed the rout in added time.
Spain’s first-half dominance at Wankdorf Stadium was textbook: one-touch passing, pressing off the ball, and minimal possession by Portugal. However, coach Montse Tomé may scrutinise the dip in intensity after the break.
In Sion, Italy earned vital revenge with a 1-0 win against Belgium, ending a three-game losing streak to the Red Flames. Arianna Caruso was the difference-maker, curling in a spectacular strike moments before halftime after a defensive lapse by Belgium.
With Spain poised to top the group, Italy, Belgium, and Portugal will battle closely for the second quarterfinal spot. Italy next faces Portugal, while Belgium has a daunting test against Spain.
A minute’s silence was observed before both games in memory of Portugal and Liverpool star Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, who tragically died in a car crash the night before.
