Spain’s women’s football team have reached uncharted territory in the UEFA Women’s European Championship. For the first time in their history, La Roja have won a knockout match at the Euros, defeating hosts Switzerland 2-0 at the sold-out Wankdorf Stadium and booking their spot in the semifinals.
Despite entering the tournament as world champions and one of the top contenders to win the title in Basel later this month, Spain had never made it past the quarterfinals in the history of the competition—until now.
“You have to value these moments,” said star midfielder Aitana Bonmatí after the victory. “Sometimes it seems we’re obliged to win every game 6-0. We stayed calm today, were confident and patient. We are in the last four and we have made history for the country by getting there.”
A Tense Battle in Bern
It wasn’t all smooth sailing for Montse Tomé’s side. The early stages saw Mariona Caldentey miss a penalty in the 8th minute—an event celebrated like a goal by the 29,734-strong Swiss crowd. Spain also struck the woodwork three times through Irene Paredes, Patri Guijarro, and others, as Switzerland hung on with the crowd behind them and threatened to repeat their men’s historic 2010 World Cup upset over Spain.
The Swiss team, backed by tireless performances from Géraldine Reuteler and Lia Wälti, disrupted Spain’s rhythm, frustrating their attack. Swiss goalkeeper Livia Peng made several key saves, and there were moments when fans believed a miracle was unfolding.
But Spain’s depth and quality eventually told.
Super Sub Impact: Del Castillo and Pina Seal the Deal
Manager Montse Tomé turned to her bench, and substitute Athenea del Castillo made an immediate impact. In the 66th minute, she latched onto a sensational backheel from Bonmatí and calmly slotted home, breaking the deadlock.
Just five minutes later, Claudia Pina doubled the lead with a goal straight out of her childhood dreams. Known for practicing shots for hours as a child, Pina once again cut in from the left and curled the ball into the top corner—mirroring her earlier strike against Belgium.
“When she makes that move inside, I think it’s going to be a goal,” coach Tomé remarked. “When she gets the ball, drives and sets up like that, planting her left foot … we think it’s going in.”
Spain Still Wasteful from the Spot
Despite their dominance, Spain missed another penalty late in the game—this time through Alexia Putellas, who failed to convert after Del Castillo won the foul. The miss highlighted a worrying trend at the Euros, where 12 of the 17 penalties taken in the quarterfinals have been missed.
Spain may need to address this ahead of their semifinal clash against either France or Germany, set for Wednesday in Zurich.
Switzerland Exit, But Win Hearts
While Switzerland’s Euro dream ends here, the nation made a strong statement about the growing popularity and potential of women’s football. Coach Pia Sundhage praised her team and the fans:
“I am disappointed that I have to go back home,” she said. “The atmosphere in the locker room and the first half tells me this is a good team. But Spain are world champions. We tried. That is the most important thing.
“I am also very proud of Switzerland. If you look at the people coming to the games, it’s been phenomenal. It’s been a once-in-a-lifetime feeling, very emotional. And they didn’t leave! They stayed. That shows me there are people in Switzerland who think that women’s football is important and I am very grateful for that.
“This is, I feel, a takeoff. We lost the game, but I think at some point we are winning a positive attitude for women’s football. Some players are sad, some disappointed, but if you give us time, I think all of us will be proud of how we continued the journey.”
Fan Passion Lights Up Bern
The pre-match atmosphere was electric. Around 20,000 Swiss fans clad in red walked from Bundesplatz in Bern’s city center, crossing the River Aare to reach Wankdorf Stadium. They sang the anthem passionately, and many stayed long after the final whistle to applaud their team. A massive banner reading “Time to move mountains” waved from the stands as Spanish players gave the hosts a respectful guard of honor.
What’s Next for Spain?
With their historic quarterfinal win in the books, Spain now prepare for their toughest test yet in the semifinals against either France or Germany. Their ability to convert penalties may be key in the next stage. But for now, La Roja can celebrate a groundbreaking moment in Spanish football history.
Spain’s journey continues—and the dream of lifting the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 trophy in Basel is alive and very real.
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