Putellas impresses, Spain creates history as they storm into the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 quarter-finals with a commanding 6-2 victory over Belgium, becoming the first team in Women’s Euros history to score five or more goals in their opening two matches.
ICYMI: Italy vs Portugal ends in stunning late drama with goal and red card
Spain’s Record-Breaking Start
Spain continued their brilliant run at EURO 2025 after thrashing Portugal 5-0 in their opener, showcasing their firepower with another goal-filled display in Thun. Their dominance now sees them as the first team to score five or more goals in their first two games at the tournament, underlining why they are the reigning world champions.
Early Exchanges and Quick Response
Belgium started brightly with Mariam Toloba going close, but Spain found their rhythm and opened the scoring in the 22nd minute. Mariona Caldentey found Vicky Lopez, who set up Alexia Putellas for a beautiful left-foot finish into the far corner. Belgium responded just two minutes later when Justine Vanhaevermaet headed in from a corner, briefly halting Spain’s momentum.
Spain Regain Control Before Half-Time
Spain reclaimed the lead in the 39th minute when Irene Parades rose highest at the far post to nod in a looping corner, restoring confidence before the break. However, Belgium, seeking to recover from their opening defeat to Italy, equalised again early in the second half. Hannah Eurlings broke clear to score, with the goal standing after a VAR check for offside.
Spain’s Ruthless Attack Seals the Game
Spain responded instantly, retaking the lead in the 52nd minute with Esther Gonzalez’s angled finish. They extended their advantage on the hour when Caldentey converted from a corner to make it 4-2. Claudia Pina added a fifth with a stunning 20-yard curling effort in the 81st minute, and Putellas capped off the win with her second of the game, neatly clipping home with four minutes left.
Late Drama but Spain Stays Firm
Belgium thought they had pulled one back late on through Tessa Wulleart, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Spain’s place in the quarter-finals was confirmed later when Portugal drew with Italy, a result that also meant Belgium were eliminated from the competition.
Looking Ahead
With two commanding wins and an attacking force that has scored 11 goals in two games, Spain heads into the quarter-finals full of confidence and momentum. For Belgium, despite showing moments of promise, their journey at EURO 2025 ends here, while Spain continues to write history in the tournament.
