At the 2025 Women’s Euro, Spain didn’t just top Group B – they overwhelmed it.
A 5-0 drubbing of Portugal in Bern was just the opening act. Esther Gonzalez struck early, Vicky Lopez danced through the defence and Alexia Putellas slotted another before halftime.
A second Gonzalez goal before the break and a late Martin-Prieto header sealed the largest win in their European Championship history.
Even with Aitana Bonmati eased in following illness, Spain’s rhythm never faltered, showcasing a blend of precision, pace and ruthless intent.
Days later, they tore through Belgium 6-2. Putellas bagged a brace, Irene Paredes hammered in a towering header, and Gonzalez, Claudia Pina and Mariona Caldentey each added their names to the scoresheet.
They finished the sweep with a 3-1 win over Italy in Bern.
Elisabetta Oliviero stunned early, but Athenea del Castillo drew level, Patricia Guijarro gave Spain the lead early in the second half, and Gonzalez confirmed the perfect record late on.
The world champions ended with 13 goals scored by nine different players – proof of depth backed by tactical intelligence.
Nine out of nine on points, topping Group B felt more declaration than an outcome – a statement sent loud enough for the whole tournament to hear.
They’ll face the hosts in the quarters.
Italy Survive and Advance Despite Heartbreak
Italy’s path was less simple. A 1-0 opening win over Belgium in Sion, courtesy of Arianna Caruso’s curling strike, offered hope.
But a 1-1 stalemate with Portugal dampened spirits – Cristiana Girelli’s superb goal was cancelled out by a late Diana Gomes equaliser.
In the final round, they lost 3-1 to Spain but still clutched progression thanks to Belgium’s late win over Portugal.
A tearful Andrea Soncin described qualification as the “most beautiful defeat,” and it felt like that.
Italy had been tested – tactically, emotionally – and they held their nerve.
Now comes Norway. The odds may not favour the Azzurre, but the belief is back.
Belgium Show Pride in Fleeting Glory
Belgium had no illusions of advancement, yet refused to disappear quietly.
Tessa Wullaert opened brilliantly in the final game, and although Portugal pulled level, Janice Cayman struck in the 96th minute to secure a 2-1 win.
They fell short overall but left the pitch with something to savour. In a tight group where small moments mattered, that one was theirs.
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Portugal Fall in Familiar Agony at Women’s Euro
Portugal never quite recovered from the opening disaster. Their draw with Italy raised hopes, but the late defeat to Belgium extinguished any momentum.
A valiant show, certainly, but in the end, two defeats and a draw weren’t enough to change their course. The wait for a breakthrough continues.
The Verdict: Dominance and Drama Collide
Group B gave us a picture of contrast. Spain were devastating in their dominance, Italy were dogged and emotional in survival, Belgium found fleeting moments of pride, and Portugal left with more questions than answers.
Spain march on as the tournament’s most complete side so far. Italy arrive bruised but still standing. Belgium and Portugal exit, but not without leaving something behind.
The quarter-finals await. And if Group B was any indication, things are only just getting started.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / AFLOSPORT
Recording Date: 11.07.2025