See how Spain dominated Portugal, kicking off the Euro with a strong statement
Spain opened the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 with a spectacular 5–0 victory over Portugal. This is the largest-ever win for Spain in a tournament of this caliber. From the very start of the match, they showcased an offensive, aggressive style of play that completely overwhelmed their opponents. The game was played at the Wankdorf Stadium (also known as Stade de Suisse) in Bern, in front of nearly 30,000 thrilled spectators.
Match facts
- Date: July 3, 2025
- Stadium: Wankdorf Stadium, Bern, Switzerland
- Final score: Spain 5 – 0 Portugal
The opening match marked the debut of Montserrat Tomé’s squad in this tournament. The contest was effectively decided already in the first half, thanks to the fantastic play of the forwards and the exceptional efficiency of the entire team. As freshly crowned world champions, Spain showed they are still in excellent form.
Goal timeline
Spain opened the scoring extremely quickly and continued to dominate the pitch throughout the game.
- 2nd minute: Esther González swiftly put the ball in the net after a brilliant pass from Olga Carmona, leaving no doubt about her class.
- 7th minute: Youngster Vicky López capitalized on a precise ball from Mariona Caldentey, extending the lead to 2–0.
- 41st minute: Alexia Putellas, the legendary two-time Ballon d’Or winner, delivered another elegant goal, making it 3–0.
- 43rd minute: Esther González struck again, neatly finishing off a rebound off the post from a shot by Clàudia Pina.
- 90+3rd minute: In stoppage time, Cristina Martín-Prieto sealed the match with a header from a perfect cross by Salma Paralluelo.
Tactical analysis
Spain: Perfect execution of plans
Montserrat Tomé perfectly prepared her players for this match, opting for quick ball recovery and lightning-fast transitions to attack. The midfield, led by Alexia Putellas, masterfully controlled the game’s tempo, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Esther González and young Vicky López shone in attack, giving the Spanish team a secure lead early in the match.
Portugal: Overwhelmed by pace and pressing
Portugal struggled to cope with Spain’s relentless pressure. Their attempts to build play were repeatedly thwarted by the opposition’s pressing. Combined with the intense atmosphere of a packed stadium, the emotional pressure proved far too much for the Portuguese players.
Player of the match: Esther González
Without a doubt, the standout player of the match was Esther González. Her two early goals set the tone of the game, and she deservedly earned the title of player of the match. Her experience, high efficiency, and composure in finishing once again proved why she is one of the strongest assets of Spain’s national team.
Post-match reactions and group standings
After the match, Alexia Putellas assessed her team’s performance: “We were perfectly prepared. Mentally and tactically, we executed everything to perfection. This match is just the beginning of our road to the finals.”
With this victory, Spain took the lead in their group without conceding a goal, cementing their status as one of the favorites to win the European Championship. For Portugal, on the other hand, the defeat means they must quickly regroup ahead of the remaining group matches. If the Portuguese dream of a historic advancement, they will need to perform better against Italy and Belgium.
For both teams, the next matches will be crucial. Spain has already confirmed its championship ambitions, while for Portugal, every next 90 minutes will be a fight for survival in the tournament.
