At St. Jakob-Park (Switzerland), Spain - the reigning world and Nations League champions - entered the match with great enthusiasm. In the 25th minute, Ona Batlle made a dangerous cross, confusing the English defense and creating conditions for Mariona Caldentey to head the ball to open the score.
Just when Lauren James (England) had to leave the field with an ankle injury, coach Sarina Wiegman brought Kelly on, and this decision turned the situation around. Just over 10 minutes into the second half, Kelly made his mark with an accurate cross, allowing Alessia Russo to head home the equalizer 1-1.
Spain still had the initiative but could not penetrate the English defense, even in 30 minutes of extra time, when the "Three Lions" defended tenaciously. With no clear winner, England and Spain needed a penalty shootout to decide the winner.
England Women got off to a shaky start when Beth Mead's shot was saved by Spain goalkeeper Cata Coll, but England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton brilliantly saved two shots from Caldentey and Aitana Bonmati to bring England back into the race. Although Coll shined again when she blocked Leah Williamson's shot, Salma Paralluelo fired wide, handing Kelly the decisive chance.
Hannah Hampton played brilliantly in the penalty shootout. |
With a familiar run-up, Kelly coolly finished, sealing a 3-1 victory. The moment was reminiscent of her goal against Germany in the Euro 2022 final at Wembley. “I’m proud of this team, proud to wear the England shirt. I was calm and knew I was going to score,” Kelly happily shared.
Goalkeeper Hampton was also emotional: “We have English blood, never give up. Today we proved that.”
Meanwhile, Spain's Aitana Bonmatí bitterly admitted: "I'm sorry for missing the shot. We played better, but sometimes football is cruel."
With this victory, England not only maintained their European title but also affirmed their steely fortitude and indomitable spirit under coach Sarina Wiegman.
Source: https://znews.vn/tuyen-nu-anh-vo-dich-euro-2025-post1572138.html
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