The reigning world champions, Spain, showcased resilience and class as they powered through to the semi-finals of UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, defeating a tenacious Netherlands side 2-1 in a match filled with tension, brilliance, and high-stakes drama. Despite missing two penalties, La Roja advanced thanks to pivotal goals from Athenea del Castillo and Claudia Pina, underlining their pedigree and tenacity when it mattered most.
A Clash of European Titans
With a spot in the final four up for grabs, the quarter-final clash between Spain and the Netherlands at a packed Friends Arena in Stockholm lived up to the billing. Spain entered the match as favorites, not just as reigning world champions but also riding a 12-game unbeaten streak. The Netherlands, meanwhile, were keen to reclaim their former glory after a transition period post-2017 Euro triumph.
From the first whistle, the match had all the makings of a classic. Spain dominated possession, stringing passes with precision, while the Dutch relied on compact defense and sharp counters.
Early Setback and Missed Opportunity
In the 14th minute, Spain were awarded a penalty after Esther González was brought down by Sherida Spitse in the box. Alexia Putellas stepped up to take the spot kick, but Dutch goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar guessed correctly and parried the shot away to keep the scores level.
The miss momentarily rattled Spain, and the Netherlands seized the opportunity. In the 23rd minute, Lineth Beerensteyn pounced on a defensive lapse to fire the Dutch ahead with a clinical finish past Misa Rodríguez.
Athenea Ignites the Comeback
Despite the setback, Spain didn’t panic. They increased the tempo and began pressing higher. Their persistence paid off in the 36th minute when Athenea del Castillo produced a moment of magic, cutting in from the right and curling a shot into the top corner beyond van Domselaar’s reach.
The goal reinvigorated the Spanish side and reminded fans why Athenea is considered one of the brightest young talents in European football. Her creativity, pace, and confidence on the ball tormented the Dutch defense throughout the evening.
Second Penalty Drama
The second half saw Spain continue to control proceedings. They were awarded a second penalty in the 55th minute after a VAR review deemed Dominique Janssen had handled the ball inside the area. This time, Jennifer Hermoso stepped up, hoping to avoid a repeat of the earlier miss.
However, fate had other plans. Hermoso’s strike rattled the crossbar and bounced away, leaving the Spanish bench momentarily stunned.
Coach Montse Tomé remained composed on the sidelines, urging her team to maintain focus. “Football tests your nerves, but belief and unity carry you through,” she would later remark in the post-match interview.
Claudia Pina Seals the Deal
As the clock ticked past the 70-minute mark, it appeared the game might head to extra time. But Claudia Pina, introduced as a substitute in the 65th minute, had other ideas.
In the 78th minute, she found space on the edge of the box after a clever layoff from Putellas and unleashed a low-driven shot that skipped past the defenders and nestled into the bottom corner. The stadium erupted as Spain took the lead for the first time in the match.
It was a goal that exemplified Spain’s depth and attacking variety. Pina’s composure and clinical finish were a testament to the team’s strength in rotation.
Dutch Resistance and Late Tension
To their credit, the Netherlands didn’t fold. They pushed forward relentlessly in the final ten minutes, testing the Spanish defense with aerial balls and set pieces. Vivianne Miedema, who had a quiet game until then, nearly equalized in the 85th minute with a header that grazed the outside of the post.
Spain, however, held firm. Irene Paredes and Laia Codina put in heroic performances at the back, clearing crosses and making crucial interceptions. Goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez made a vital save in injury time to deny Beerensteyn a brace.
Tactical Brilliance
Montse Tomé’s tactical approach deserves praise. Opting for a flexible 4-3-3 formation, she gave Putellas the freedom to roam and influence the game, while Aitana Bonmatí controlled the tempo from midfield. The wide players, particularly Athenea and Salma Paralluelo, stretched the Dutch defense and created gaps for overlapping fullbacks.
Spain’s resilience after the penalty misses and their ability to respond without losing shape reflect the tactical maturity instilled by Tomé.
What This Win Means
Spain’s progression to the semi-finals is more than just a routine win. It highlights their evolution from a technically brilliant but inconsistent side to a mentally tough, tactically astute powerhouse.
They are now just one match away from a second consecutive major tournament final, following their triumph at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. For a team long criticized for lacking knockout-stage grit, this performance was a statement.
Players React
Athenea del Castillo, who won Player of the Match, expressed her joy post-game. “We knew it wouldn’t be easy, but we believed in ourselves. I’m proud to contribute with a goal, but this was about the team. Everyone gave everything.”
Claudia Pina also spoke about her decisive goal. “It’s what you dream about. Coming off the bench and scoring the winner in a Euro quarter-final? It’s surreal. But I owe it to my teammates who set up the moment.”
Team captain Alexia Putellas addressed her missed penalty with humility. “These things happen. What matters is how you respond. I’m proud of how we regrouped and stayed strong.”
Looking Ahead
Spain will now face either France or Sweden in the semi-final. Both are formidable opponents, but Spain’s combination of flair, depth, and determination makes them strong contenders regardless of who they meet.
Montse Tomé has options aplenty, with Pina staking a strong claim for a starting role. Whether she adjusts the lineup or keeps faith in the winning formula remains to be seen.
The semi-final will be played at the iconic Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg, and anticipation is already building for what could be another historic night for La Roja.
Dutch Regret but Pride Remains
While the Netherlands exit the tournament, they do so with heads held high. Coach Andries Jonker praised his team’s spirit. “We gave everything. It was a game of small margins. We had our moments, but Spain showed why they’re world champions.”
For Dutch fans, the emergence of young talents like Esmee Brugts and the continued brilliance of van Domselaar provide hope for the future.
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