The streets of Zurich buzzed with anticipation as Spain and Germany met in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 semi-final. Both nations have rich footballing traditions, but only one could advance to face England in Sunday’s final. When the final whistle sounded, it was Spain who emerged as victors, securing a 1-0 win after extra time. The match turned into an instant classic, capturing the imagination of fans across the continent and dominating sports news searches in the UK.
Match Overview: Nerves, Tactics and Late Drama
From the opening moments, the game was a tactical masterclass. Spain, the reigning world champions, controlled possession and dictated the tempo. Germany, eight-time winners of the European Championship, played with resilience, defending stoically against Spain’s relentless attacks. Both teams created chances, but neither side managed to break the deadlock over 90 minutes. The tension was palpable as the match edged into extra time.
In the 113th minute, Aitana Bonmatí, the current Ballon d’Or holder, delivered the decisive blow. She collected a clever pass from Athenea del Castillo, took a touch inside the area, and rifled a shot past German goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger at the near post. That strike not only sent the Spanish bench into raptures but also secured Spain’s maiden appearance in a Women’s Euro final.
Key Statistics: Spain’s Domination Shows
A glance at the key numbers reveals why Spain held the upper hand. Throughout the tournament, Spain averaged 73.5% possession, the most of any team at Euro 2025. Against Germany, they maintained similar dominance, controlling two-thirds of the ball by full-time. In comparison, Germany averaged just over 53% possession in previous matches and found themselves chasing shadows for large spells.
Spain also outshot their opponents, with 11 efforts on goal compared to Germany’s four attempts on target. Passing accuracy and the fluid movement through midfield, anchored by Bonmatí and Putellas, allowed Spain to wear down the German defence.
Expert Insight: The Tactical Battle
BBC Sport’s analysis ahead of the match highlighted the contrast in styles. Spain’s approach is built around quick, accurate passing and patient build-up play. Germany looked to exploit their strengths on the wings and sought to hit on the break when rare chances presented themselves.
Alexia Putellas, speaking before the match, emphasised Spain’s desire to dominate the ball and pick their moments in attack. “We aim to control the game. This entails keeping the ball most of the time,” she said. On the other side, German coach Christian Wück admitted his side would have to “endure” long spells without possession, focusing on discipline and seizing opportunities to counter.
Player Performances: Bonmatí’s Moment and Coll’s Heroics
Aitana Bonmatí once again proved why she is considered one of the world’s best footballers. Her composure in extra time settled a contest that could easily have gone to penalties. In goal, Cata Coll delivered two crucial saves at the end of regular time, preserving the clean sheet and keeping Spanish hopes alive.
For Germany, Ann-Katrin Berger gave an inspired display between the sticks. She made key interventions, including stops from Esther González and Salma Paralluelo, but was left helpless by Bonmatí’s finish. Despite a depleted squad and the absence of several key defenders, Germany’s spirit was never in doubt.
Historical Context: Spain’s New Era, Germany’s Proud Legacy
For Spain, this victory marks the breaking of a long-standing barrier. Before this match, Spain had never beaten Germany in a major women’s tournament. The win is a testament to the rapid development of the women’s game in Spain, fuelled by the professionalisation of clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid and inspired by their 2023 World Cup triumph.
Germany, although eliminated, showed the fortitude that has earned them eight continental crowns. Coach Christian Wück reflected post-match that the squad is young and determined to return stronger in future tournaments. Their resilience in Swiss stadia was evident, but on this night, it was not enough to deny Spain a slice of history.
What Comes Next: An All-European Showdown
Attention now turns to Basel, where England awaits in the final. The match sets up a tantalising rematch of the 2023 World Cup final, which Spain won 1-0 in Sydney. England, defending European champions, will host a Spanish side buoyed by their semi-final heroics and on the verge of achieving a unique double—holding both the World and European titles at once.
Group Stage Brilliance
Spain opened the tournament with a clinical display, dispatching Norway and Switzerland with comfortable scorelines. A slight hiccup came in the draw with the Netherlands, which served as a crucial reminder of the competitive nature of the tournament. Yet, the Spanish side responded by doubling down on their trademark possession football and tactical fluidity, topping their group with impressive statistics in passing accuracy and goal difference.
Quarter-Final Resilience
In the quarter-finals, Spain faced France, another powerhouse in women’s football. The tie saw Spain fall behind for the first time in the competition, but their response was immediate and fierce. Two quick goals—one from Salma Paralluelo and another from Olga Carmona—turned the match around. Spain’s bench strength and adaptability were on show, with substitutes playing key roles in maintaining tempo late in the contest.
Semi-Final Drama Against Germany
The semi-final win over Germany was not just about individual brilliance, but about teamwork and mental fortitude. Despite a series of missed chances and German counterattacks, Spain’s defensive discipline held firm. Goalkeeper Cata Coll, praised by pundits for her calm under pressure, made timely saves. The match winner, Aitana Bonmatí’s well-timed strike, reflected both technical prowess and the ability to deliver in the tournament’s tightest moments.
Conclusion:
Spain’s semi-final victory over Germany not only secured a place in Sunday’s final but also signalled a changing of the guard in European football. The manner in which they controlled the match, combined with individual brilliance in decisive moments, offers hope of a thrilling final.
British fans, many of whom watched the semi-final live on BBC One, will be eager for Sunday’s fixture. Spain’s challenge now is to recover quickly and prepare for the ultimate test against a formidable England side. If this semi-final taught us anything, it is that football’s new era is driven by courage, skill, and the hunger to make history.