On Wednesday, football history saw a new chapter unfold. Spain’s women’s team reached their first-ever European Championship final. They earned their spot by beating Germany 1-0 in extra time. This victory sets up a highly anticipated rematch of the 2023 World Cup final against England.
The decisive goal came late in the game. Aitana Bonmatí, who won the Ballon d’Or in both 2023 and 2024, scored in the 113th minute. This single strike secured Spain’s debut in a Euro final. It also knocked out Germany, a giant in European women’s football. Germany had lifted the continental trophy eight times, in 1989, 1991, 1995, 1997, 2001, 2005, 2009, and 2013. They were also finalists in the last edition of the tournament.
This Sunday, Spain, the current world champions, will face England. Their previous clash in the 2023 World Cup final ended in Spain’s favor. England, meanwhile, is the reigning European champion, having won the title in 2022. This will be England’s fourth Euro final appearance. They previously lost in the 1984 and 2009 finals.
The final match marks the 14th edition of the European Championship. For the third time in a row, Portugal’s national team did not make it past the group stage. The grand finale is scheduled for St. Jakob-Park in Basel. Kick-off is set for 6:30 PM local time, which is 5:30 PM in Lisbon.