England have once again cemented their place at the pinnacle of European women's football, securing the UEFA Women's EURO 2025 title after a nail-biting 1-1 draw against Spain, followed by a 3-1 victory on penalties. The Lionesses displayed resilience and determination, características that defined their entire tournament run. The final, held at St. Jakob-Park in Basel, Switzerland, was a captivating encounter that showcased the talent and competitive spirit of both teams.

England Player Ratings:

• Hannah Hampton (9/10): A standout performance from Hampton, who was solid throughout the match and made crucial saves in the penalty shootout, earning her status as the hero of the hour. She saved two spot-kicks, contributing significantly to England's victory.
• Lucy Bronze (7/10): Bronze brought her signature energy to the field but faced challenges in containing Spain's attack, particularly in the lead-up to their goal. She was brave in tackles but was eventually forced off due to injury.
• Leah Williamson (8/10): As captain, Williamson led by example with a commanding defensive display. Her leadership and composure were vital in keeping Spain's attacking threats at bay.
• Jess Carter (8/10): Carter was consistently well-positioned, making important blocks and clearances to thwart Spanish attacks. Her defensive contribution was crucial in maintaining England's resilience.
• Alex Greenwood (8/10): Greenwood faced a tough challenge against Spain's dynamic attack but grew into the game, contributing defensively and converting her penalty with confidence.
• Keira Walsh (7/10): After a shaky start, Walsh settled into the midfield battle, helping England gain a foothold in the contest. Her passing and tackling were important in disrupting Spain's rhythm.
• Ella Toone (7/10): Toone's impact grew as the game progressed, making driving runs from midfield and contributing to England's attacking play.
• Georgia Stanway (7/10): Stanway displayed immense energy and commitment, battling hard in midfield.
• Lauren Hemp (8/10): Hemp was a constant threat down the right flank, using her pace and skill to create opportunities.
• Alessia Russo (8/10): Russo led the line effectively and scored England's crucial equaliser with a well-placed header.
• Lauren James (5/10): James struggled to find her rhythm and appeared to be hampered by an ankle injury, leading to an early substitution.
• Chloe Kelly (9/10): Kelly made a significant impact as a substitute, providing the assist for Russo's goal and scoring the winning penalty. Her super-sub status was once again justified.
• Michelle Agyemang (7/10): Agyemang provided a strong focal point after coming on, contributing to England's attacking efforts.
• Beth Mead (6/10): Mead made a crucial block to deny Bonmati but missed her penalty.

Spain Player Ratings (selected):

• Ona Batlle (8/10): Batlle's attacking interplay was a highlight, providing the assist for Caldentey's opening goal with a precise cross.
• Alexia Putellas (8/10): The Barcelona star orchestrated Spain's midfield with purpose and vision, making her substitution a surprise.
• Mariona Caldentey (7/10): Caldentey headed Spain into the lead and displayed confidence but missed her penalty in the shootout.
• Aitana Bonmati (7/10): A constant threat with her driving runs and vision, Bonmati also had a penalty shootout miss.

The match was a tactical battle, with Spain initially dominating possession and creating chances. Mariona Caldentey's header put Spain ahead in the 25th minute, capitalizing on a well-executed passing move. England, however, demonstrated their trademark resilience, with Alessia Russo equalizing in the second half from a cross by Chloe Kelly.

As the game wore on, both teams battled fiercely, but neither could find a decisive goal. Extra time followed, but the deadlock remained unbroken, leading to a penalty shootout. In the shootout, England emerged victorious, with Hannah Hampton proving to be the hero with her saves. Chloe Kelly's decisive penalty sealed the win, sparking celebrations among the Lionesses and their fans.

This victory marks England's second consecutive Women's EURO title, solidifying their status as a dominant force in European women's football. The Lionesses' journey to the final was marked by overcoming challenges and demonstrating unwavering determination, making their triumph all the more memorable.