Facing a mourning Portugal, Spain dominates with a decisive 5-0 victory in their Women's Euro match.
In a poignant and historic start to the 2025 Women's European Championship, Spain overpowered Portugal with a commanding 5-0 victory at the Stadion Wankdorf in Bern, Switzerland. The match was played in a bittersweet atmosphere, as Portugal paid tribute to Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away earlier that day.
The Spanish team showcased a strong attacking line from the outset, with Esther González scoring the opening goal just two minutes into the game. Olga Carmona put the ball over the top, and González finished cleverly after controlling it. Five minutes later, Vicky López doubled the lead, converting a low cross from Mariona Caldentey.
Alexia Putellas scored the third goal four minutes before halftime, demonstrating sublime skill after excellent control and movement past a defender. González then added her second goal a minute before the break, tapping in after Clàudia Pina's cross-shot rebounded from the post.
In the second half, Spain maintained their dominance, with Portugal struggling to contain their offensive pressure. Portugal managed only 28% possession and 70% pass accuracy, in stark contrast to Spain's 72% possession and 87% pass accuracy. Despite showing more composure in the second half, Portugal were still unable to match Spain's power, precision, and technique.
Cristina Martín-Prieto sealed the victory with a headed goal in the third minute of stoppage time, after Salma Paralluelo's cross. The win marked a strong start for Spain in the tournament, demonstrating their potential to win the Euros for the first time.
Alexia Putellas and Vicky López ran the midfield effectively, contributing to the team's dominant performance. Mariona Caldentey provided crucial assists, including the setup for López's goal. Aitana Bonmati, who recently recovered from viral meningitis, was brought in as a substitute for Spain.
Spain currently leads Group B of the Women's Euros with Italy in second place. Their next match will be against Belgium, while Portugal will face Italy. Spain's victory over Portugal was their biggest in a European Championship, surpassing their 4-1 win over Finland in 2022.
The match was overshadowed by the deaths of Portugal international Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva in a car accident earlier on Thursday. Portugal's team remained on the pitch after the final whistle to pose in front of their fans with a huge black banner in memory of Diogo Jota. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva at this difficult time.
- The world of football mourns the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, with Portugal paying tribute to him during the 2025 Women's European Championship match against Spain.
- Amidst the bittersweet atmosphere, the Spanish team showcased impressive skill in their 5-0 victory, reaffirming their potential to win the Euros for the first time.
- Meanwhile, the news of European leagues was also dominated by the unexpected death of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, which occurred in a car accident earlier in the day.
