Spain Dominates Portugal 5-0 in Emotional Euro 2025 Opener
Bern, Switzerland – World champions Spain delivered a resounding statement of intent in their UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 opener on Thursday, routing Iberian rivals Portugal 5-0 in a match preceded by a poignant tribute.
The game, held at the Stadion Wankdorf, began with a moment of silence for Portugal and Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who tragically died in a car crash just hours before the match. Both teams wore black armbands, and fans displayed heartfelt banners, underscoring the unity and grief felt across the footballing world.
Once play resumed, Spain wasted no time in asserting their dominance. Veteran striker Esther González opened the scoring after just 87 seconds with a deft flick, setting the tone for a commanding first-half performance. Teen sensation Vicky López, aged just 18, doubled Spain’s lead minutes later, becoming the youngest player to score for La Roja.
Captain Alexia Putellas, returning to the European Championship stage after missing Euro 2022 due to injury, showcased her readiness to lead by adding a third goal in the 41st minute with a display of brilliant control. González then bagged her second just two minutes later, tucking in a rebound to give Spain a formidable 4-0 lead at halftime.
While Spain’s intensity dipped slightly in the second half, substitute Cristina Martin-Prieto completed the rout with a header in stoppage time, sealing a comprehensive 5-0 victory. Despite the absence of two-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí from the starting lineup (who remained on the bench until the 81st minute after recovering from meningitis), Spain’s depth and attacking prowess were evident throughout.
For Portugal, it was a challenging start to their Euro 2025 campaign. Despite the efforts of players like Jéssica Silva, their counter-attacking strategy struggled to gain traction against a clinical Spanish side. Portugal will now look to rebound in their next Group B fixture against Italy, while Spain will face Belgium.
This dominant win not only solidifies Spain’s position as a tournament favorite but also demonstrates their ability to perform under emotional circumstances, offering a powerful tribute to a fallen peer.