BASEL, SWITZERLAND – England's Lionesses have cemented their dynasty in European football, clinching their second consecutive UEFA Women's Euro title after a nerve-shredding penalty shootout victory against Spain on Sunday night. The final at St. Jakob-Park ended 1-1 after extra time, with England prevailing 3-1 in the subsequent shootout.

The victory serves as sweet revenge for England, reversing the outcome of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup final where they fell to this same Spanish side. For the second major final in a row, it was forward Chloe Kelly who scored the decisive kick, sending the travelling England supporters into delirium and confirming the nation's status as the continent's dominant force.

A Tactical Battle of Attrition

The match was a captivating, high-stakes affair that pitted Spain's technical possession-based style against England's disciplined and potent counter-attacking strategy. Spain, the reigning world champions, controlled the ball for long periods, with midfielders Aitana Bonmatí and Patri Guijarro dictating the tempo. However, they struggled to break down a resolute English defence marshalled by captain Leah Williamson and goalkeeper Mary Earps.

After a tense and scoreless first half, the deadlock was broken in the 68th minute. A swift England counter-attack saw Lauren Hemp drive down the left flank before delivering a precise cross for Alessia Russo, who headed the ball powerfully past Spanish goalkeeper Cata Coll to give the Lionesses the lead.

Spain responded with relentless pressure. Their persistence paid off in the 85th minute when star forward Salma Paralluelo found space inside the box, latching onto a through ball from Mariona Caldentey and firing a low shot past the outstretched arms of Earps to level the score and force the match into extra time.

The Decisive Shootout

Thirty minutes of extra time failed to produce a winner, setting the stage for the ultimate test of nerve: a penalty shootout.

England goalkeeper Mary Earps, who was named Player of the Match for her heroic saves throughout the game, proved to be the difference-maker. She saved Spain's first two penalties, diving brilliantly to deny Caldentey and Bonmatí, immediately giving England a commanding advantage.

While Georgia Stanway converted England's first attempt, Spain finally got on the board through substitute Eva Navarro. But with nerves of steel, Alex Greenwood and Chloe Kelly both coolly dispatched their penalties. It was Kelly's successful kick that sealed the 3-1 shootout win, sparking jubilant celebrations from the English players and coaching staff, led by manager Sarina Wiegman.

Wiegman's Golden Touch

The victory continues the extraordinary run of success for manager Sarina Wiegman, who has now led the Lionesses to two Euro titles and a World Cup final in just four years. Her tactical acumen and ability to instill unwavering belief in her squad have been central to their triumphs.

"This team is just incredible," Wiegman told reporters post-match. "They never give up. We knew it would be the hardest game, but we had a plan and they executed it with so much heart. I am so incredibly proud of them."

For Spain, the defeat is a heartbreaking end to an otherwise dominant tournament. While they showcased their world-class talent, they were ultimately undone by England's resilience and clinical finishing in the shootout. This final has further intensified the rivalry between Europe's two top-ranked teams, setting the stage for future dramatic encounters on the road to the next World Cup.