The European Women’s Roller Hockey Championship final always brings high drama. This past Saturday in Paredes was no different. Portugal’s national team battled Spain for the continental crown. Despite a determined effort, Portugal eventually fell short, losing 7-2 to a dominant Spanish squad. This victory marked Spain’s ninth European title overall, and an astonishing eighth win in a row.
The Rota dos Móveis Pavilion in Lordelo saw an electric start to the match. Portugal grabbed an early lead just two minutes in. Marlene Sousa found the back of the net, giving her team a hopeful start. However, Spain quickly turned the tide. Aina Florenza scored in the 3rd and 23rd minutes. Maria Sanjurjo added another in the 11th minute, and Aimeé Blackman made it 4-1 in the 15th. Spain took a comfortable lead into halftime.
Portugal entered the second half with a big task ahead, still dreaming of securing their fourth European title. But the Spanish team showed no signs of slowing down. Marta Piquero extended Spain’s lead in the 28th minute. Portugal did manage to pull one back with a goal from Beatriz Várzeas in the 32nd minute. Yet, Spain continued their assault, with Aina Florenza scoring again in the 49th minute. Maria Sanjurjo sealed the 7-2 victory with her second goal in the 50th minute.
This win in Paredes, during the 17th edition of the competition, solidified Spain’s incredible dynasty. Their ninth European title confirms their top spot in the winner’s rankings. Portugal, meanwhile, holds second place with three titles, earned in 1997, 1999, and 2001. This recent final also adds to Portugal’s record of eight second-place finishes, highlighting their consistent presence at the sport’s highest level.