In a nail-biting penalty shootout, England successfully defended their European title, overcoming Spain 3-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, with Chloe Kelly once again the hero. The match, held in the Euro 2025 final, saw Mariona Caldentey put Spain ahead in the first half before Alessia Russo’s header leveled things up, sending the game into extra time.
For England, the journey to defending their title was no easy feat. The Lionesses had already gone to extra time in their previous knockout games, and again found themselves in a tense shootout after battling to a draw. But it was Kelly—who had famously scored the winning goal at Wembley in 2022—that sealed the win with the decisive spot-kick in a performance full of composure and confidence.
“I don’t miss twice!” Kelly declared after the game, showcasing her mental toughness as she once again rose to the occasion. Coming off the bench in the 40th minute to replace Lauren James, Kelly immediately made an impact. The Chelsea winger had seemed to be carrying an injury from the semi-final against Italy, but her energy and skill were undeniable as she provided an assist for Russo's equalizer.
Spain Takes the Lead, England Fights Back
The match began with Spain seizing the advantage through Caldentey’s header in the 25th minute. England struggled early on, as Spain's swift and technical play had them on the back foot. Caldentey outjumped Lucy Bronze to meet Ona Batlle’s cross and give Spain the lead.
But England responded quickly after Kelly entered the game. Her precise delivery found Russo, whose header found the back of the net, equalizing in the 57th minute. Despite Spain having the lion’s share of possession in extra time, England’s goalkeeper, Hannah Hampton, kept her team in the game with crucial saves, most notably denying Claudia Pina from a tight angle.
Spain came close to regaining the lead when Salma Paralluelo had a chance late in extra time, but her flicked shot went wide.
Penalty Drama: England’s Victory in the Shootout
As the game headed into penalties, it was clear the shootout would be a tense affair. Beth Mead’s first kick was retaken after a double touch, and despite initially scoring, her second attempt was saved. Spain had a brief lead when Patri Guijarro converted her penalty, but that would be the only successful spot-kick for Spain. Hampton, who had been a rock throughout the match, played a pivotal role in England’s triumph. She saved efforts from Caldentey and Aitana Bonmati, while Paralluelo sent her penalty wide. England, despite a miss from Leah Williamson, were clinical. Niamh Charles and Alex Greenwood both scored, setting the stage for Kelly’s iconic moment.
With the pressure on, Kelly stepped up and coolly slotted home her penalty, securing England’s victory and their second consecutive European title. The Lionesses had done it again, proving their resilience and determination.
Post-Match Reactions
A jubilant Kelly reflected on her journey: “I was cool, I was composed. I knew I was going to hit the back of the net. I don’t miss a penalty twice! Tough times don’t last, and I’m grateful to everyone who doubted me.”
Former England international Ian Wright praised Kelly’s clutch performances: “She’s come off the bench throughout the tournament and delivered every single time. She’s done it all.”
Hampton also lauded her teammates for their spirit: “We never say die. We keep going, and we did that today. I can’t believe we won.”
In the end, it was a historic victory for England, as Chloe Kelly's calm under pressure helped the Lionesses retain their European crown in a dramatic and unforgettable final.