Fierce Battle at Wankdorf Ends in Spanish Victory
On 18 July 2025, Bern’s Wankdorf Stadium turned into a true arena of footballing passion. In the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 quarter‑final, Spain defeated Switzerland 2‑0, showing that—even at this stage—they are among the main contenders for gold. The win was driven above all by the outstanding Athenea del Castillo and Clàudia Pina, but it was also the fruit of a tightly knit team effort. The match was of high quality, full of twists, tense moments, and big‑name performers.
Match Facts
- Date & Venue: 18 July 2025, Wankdorf, Bern
- Score: Spain 2, Switzerland 0
- Attendance: The official figure was not released, but the hosts certainly played in front of a packed house and a fiery atmosphere.
The quarter‑final always looked a tough assignment for both sides—you could sense what was at stake. Spain were favourites, yet early problems arose: Mariona Caldentey missed a penalty and Irene Paredes struck the bar. The drama peaked after half‑time as more chances went begging; Spain twice hit the post through Patri Guijarro and Esther González.
The breakthrough came on 66 minutes when Athenea del Castillo, barely off the bench, coolly finished a flowing move to make it 1‑0. Five minutes later Clàudia Pina doubled the lead with a beautiful strike from outside the box. Switzerland—roared on by their fans—chased the game bravely, but a stoppage‑time red card for Noelle Maritz sealed their fate.
Despite spells of profligacy (Spain squandered three penalties in total), La Roja’s determination and consistency shone through. A fully deserved semi‑final berth underlines that the world champions have no intention of stopping short of another title.
Tactics, Key Figures & Match Flow
The game was a tactical chess match. Spain stuck to their trademark attacking control of midfield. The starting XI: Cata Coll; Batlle, Paredes, Aleixandri, Olga Carmona; Aitana Bonmatí, Patri Guijarro, Alexia Putellas; Mariona Caldentey, Esther González, Clàudia Pina. Wide players and overlapping full‑backs provided breadth, while Bonmatí and Putellas dictated the tempo.
Switzerland, under Pia Sundhage, opted for solid defence and rapid counter‑attacks. In a 4‑4‑2, Ana‑Maria Crnogorčević and Iman Beney led the line, ready to strike on the break.
Key moments:
- 9’ – Mariona Caldentey misses a penalty—Spain undeterred.
- 43’ – Paredes clips the bar.
- 61’ – Guijarro and Esther hit the posts—luck deserts Spain.
- 66’ – Athenea del Castillo scores after Bonmatí’s clever back‑heel.
- 71’ – Clàudia Pina’s superb long‑range shot makes it 2‑0.
- 88’ – Spain fail to convert another penalty, but victory never looks in doubt.
Switzerland’s ambition was stifled by Spain’s organised defence; time and again La Roja snuffed out local hopes and showed they had a plan B when Plan A faltered.
Athenea del Castillo – Super‑Sub Who Changed Everything
The undisputed heroine? Athenea del Castillo. Introduced in the second half with the game still wide open, she needed just over three minutes to put Spain ahead—finishing off Bonmatí’s back‑heel with ice‑cool precision. Her entrance injected energy and restored confidence after the missed spot‑kicks. Players like her, able to dismantle opponents from the bench, often become a tournament’s silent heroes. Coach Montse Tomé praised her boldness and instant impact.
“It was a high‑level match. Switzerland defended well early on while we searched for openings, but we kept possession and structure. Athenea brought the spark and attacking presence exactly when we needed it.”
— Montse Tomé, Spain head coach
Her display underlined the importance of squad depth and in‑game adaptability—potentially decisive assets in Spain’s hunt for gold.
Post‑Match Reactions
Montse Tomé (Spain):
“I’m proud of how the team played. Despite missed penalties, we maintained control and ultimately tilted the game our way. Bigger challenges await, and we’re determined to reach the summit.”
Swiss captain:
“Facing a team as renowned as Spain, at home, is a massive test. I’m proud of the squad—we showed fight and unity, which will pay off in future.”
Both teams displayed character and respect—Switzerland can hold their heads high after a historic quarter‑final, while Spain simply want more.
What the Result Means
Spain once again confirm their heavyweight status in women’s football. Knocking out the hosts gives La Roja a huge confidence boost as they chase another crown. With 16 goals so far, their attack is firing.
Yet pressure mounts after showpiece wins like the group‑stage 6‑2 over Belgium. Every next opponent will tailor special plans for them; Spain must stay sharp.
For Switzerland, reaching the quarter‑finals is a milestone. Playing on home soil boosts the women’s game’s popularity and inspires young girls to follow in their heroes’ footsteps. Organisers can be proud of the atmosphere and spectacle delivered.
Spain now look to the semi‑final—will the winning streak continue? If they handle the pressure and keep playing with the same freedom, La Roja could well be the story of the Euro 2025 final. As for Switzerland, their journey is surely only beginning!
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