England’s Lionesses pulled off a dramatic and historic win in the Euro 2025 final—but not without a fair share of chaos, nerves, and a touch of controversy.
It all went down in Basel, and fans were left gripping their seats until the very last kick.
This wasn’t just about lifting another trophy.
It marked a first-ever major tournament win on foreign soil for an England side.
But to get there, Sarina Wiegman’s team had to survive everything Spain threw at them—including a controversial penalty re-take that had hearts pounding.
Spain Struck First but the Lionesses Clawed Back
The final got off to a tense start, with Spain drawing first blood.
Mariona Caldentey headed in a slick goal in the first half, giving Spain an early edge and forcing England to play catch-up.
But if there’s one thing the Lionesses are known for, it’s resilience.
England didn’t stay behind for long. Alessia Russo came to the rescue with a brilliant header that found the net and leveled the score, bringing the energy right back to the English squad and their supporters.
Extra-Time Grit and a Controversial Call
With the game locked in a 1–1 draw at full time, extra minutes were added—but neither side could break the deadlock.
So, the final went to penalties, and that’s where the real drama kicked in.
Beth Mead stepped up to take the first penalty for England.
She struck the ball cleanly—or so it seemed—but as she planted her foot, she slipped, causing the ball to deflect off her standing foot just after making contact.
At first, the ball hit the back of the net.
But under UEFA’s recently updated rules, a “double touch” meant the kick was invalid, and referee Stéphanie Frappart ordered a re-take.
It was a gut-wrenching moment for Mead.
Mead Denied but the Lionesses Stay Strong
Mead’s second attempt had more height but less luck.
Spanish keeper Cata Coll guessed right, diving to her right and getting a strong glove on the ball to keep it out.
For a moment, it felt like the tide might be turning Spain’s way.
But England held their nerve. The squad didn’t let the setback derail their momentum.
In fact, they doubled down and showed immense composure as the penalty shootout continued.
Hannah Hampton Steps Up as the Hero
Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton became the night’s unlikely star.
She saved two of Spain’s spot-kicks with confident dives, while Salma Paralluelo—Spain’s big hope—fired her shot wide under pressure.
The final shootout tally ended 3-1 in England’s favor. Jubilation followed.
Tears, cheers, and emotional embraces filled the pitch as the Lionesses celebrated a win that was equal parts thrilling and historic.
A Win That Will Go Down in the History Books
This victory is more than just another medal for Wiegman’s collection—though it does mark her third consecutive European title across two different national teams.
It’s a landmark achievement that solidifies England’s dominance in women’s football and shows they can win not just at home, but on the world’s toughest stages.
The controversial moment with Mead will surely be talked about for a while, especially as it comes off the back of UEFA’s decision to tighten up penalty shootout rules earlier this year.
Ironically, that very rule tripped up Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez in the Champions League—an incident that likely led to this very change.
What Comes Next for the Lionesses?
With another Euros title secured and their names etched into history, the Lionesses will now set their sights on the next major tournament.
And if Sunday night’s gritty, dramatic display was any indication, this England side is far from done making headlines.
More updates to follow as celebrations roll on.