England successfully defended its UEFA Women’s EURO title by defeating Spain 3-1 in a penalty shootout after an intense 1-1 draw that went into extra time during a thrilling finale at St. Jakob-Park in Basel.
Spain controlled possession early and struck first in the 25th minute, with Mariona Caldentey heading home a precise cross from Ona Batlle. But England responded in the 57th minute when Alessia Russo converted a Chloe Kelly delivery into a powerful header to equalise.
Despite Spain’s dominance in ball control, England’s defence held firm. The match remained locked through extra time, leading to a historic shootout—only the second final ever to be decided in such fashion since 1984.
England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton emerged as a crucial figure, stopping two attempts from Caldentey and Bonmati. Spain substitute Salma Paralluelo missed her shot, setting the stage for Chloe Kelly to recreate her 2022 heroics. Her confident strike sealed England’s back-to-back championship.
“I’m so proud to be English,” Kelly said, jubilant after the win. “I was cool, composed, and knew I’d score.”
This triumph marks another defining moment in England’s rise in women’s football, reinforcing their reputation as champions of composure under pressure.
