Spain, the reigning World Cup champions, booked their place in the Women’s Euro 2025 quarterfinals with a stunning 6-2 win over Belgium on Monday. This marked the first time Spain has won back-to-back matches at a Women’s Euro, following their dominant 5-0 victory over Portugal in the opener.
Alexia Putellas, the focus keyword, once again stole the spotlight. The two-time Ballon d’Or winner scored twice, earned her second consecutive Player of the Match honor, and issued a warning to rivals: “The team is performing well, but we can still do better. I feel mentally strong, and that helps me support the team better.”
Spain now has 11 goals in two games, living up to their pre-tournament billing as title favorites. The match began with Spain laying siege to the Belgian goal. Mariona Caldentey set up a clever move that ended with Putellas slotting the ball into the far corner in the 22nd minute. But Belgium quickly equalized through Justine Vanhaevermaet, heading in from a corner.
Spain captain Irene Paredes, playing her first game of the tournament after suspension, restored the lead just before halftime with a powerful header. After the break, Belgium leveled again through Hannah Eurlings. Though it was initially ruled offside, the goal stood after a VAR review.
Just moments later, Spain responded with Esther González scoring after a beautiful assist from Putellas. When González’s next attempt was blocked, Caldentey pounced to make it 4-2. Claudia Pina then scored the goal of the night, curling a stunning shot from 20 yards into the top corner. There was still time for Putellas to score her second and seal a commanding victory.
Aitana Bonmatí, who had been hospitalized with viral meningitis before the tournament, returned in the second half and added spark to the midfield. Despite the loss, Belgium showed courage and resilience. Their coach Elísabet Gunnarsdóttir said, “We believed and gave everything. I’m proud of the fight we showed.”
Spain now tops Group B with six points. Italy has four, Portugal one. On Friday, Spain faces Italy for the top spot, while Belgium meets Portugal. With Alexia Putellas in peak form, Spain looks every bit the favorite — and they’re only getting stronger.
