Football fans across the UK watched with bated breath as the long-anticipated Germany v Spain clash unfolded in Zurich. The stakes felt sky-high, with the winner set to face England’s Lionesses in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final. The match became an instant classic, with Spain narrowly defeating Germany in extra time, guaranteeing an enthralling England versus Spain final on Sunday.
How Germany v Spain Became the Talk of the Tournament
The Germany v Spain game quickly trended at the top of UK search rankings, as supporters of the women’s game in Britain eagerly analysed every kick and tactical switch. Spain dominated possession, constantly testing German resolve. Despite several close calls, the match remained goalless until extra time.
Aitana Bonmatí, widely regarded as the world’s best player, broke the deadlock with an exquisite 113th-minute goal. Her effort secured Spain’s first-ever appearance in a Women’s Euro final, rewriting history and sending social media into overdrive. Germany, despite dogged defending and resilience, saw their dreams of reclaiming the European crown dashed by the narrowest of margins.
Spain v Germany: Who Did the Lionesses Secretly Prefer?
As the match reached its climax, speculation grew about which opponent the Lionesses would rather face for European glory. Many pundits suggested England might have preferred to meet Germany, recalling recent painful encounters with Spain. The Lionesses have struggled against the Spanish side in key matches, including the 2023 World Cup final defeat and failure to overcome La Roja in the recent Nations League semi-finals.
Spain’s technical brilliance and relentless pressing have set them apart this tournament. They arrive at the final undefeated, having scored 16 goals and conceded just three along their journey. Germany, by contrast, thrive on tournament pedigree and resilience, with a reputation for triumphing in the toughest matches. The Germany v Spain fixture offered a stylistic duel between Spanish flair and German discipline, with many thinking England’s physicality could break down a German squad depleted by suspensions and injuries.
However, Spain, powered by Ballon d’Or winners like Bonmatí and Putellas, proved unstoppable this time. Their combination of skill, shape, and steely mentality has turned them into genuine favourites, even against England on UK soil.
The Stats and Social Media Highlights That Lit Up the UK
The aftermath of Germany v Spain saw UK social media awash with dramatic clips, tactical breakdowns, and passionate opinions. Fans debated the Lionesses’ best approach for Sunday’s final. Some key moments and reactions included:
- Bonmatí’s 113th-minute strike instantly trended as the highlight of the tournament.
- English supporters remembered Spain’s dominance in possession; over 70% against top sides.
- German keeper Ann-Katrin Berger’s acrobatics and penalty heroics in the quarter-final ensured Germany had their moments in the spotlight.
- Many pundits, including former Lionesses, analysed Spain’s ability to draw late goals and their threats on set-pieces.
UK tabloids and radio shows buzzed all Thursday, debating England’s best tactics to counter Spain’s possession-based game and break their winning streak. Calls for Michelle Agyemang to start up front for England grew louder, after her recent heroics from the bench.
Why Germany v Spain Was the Perfect Pre-Final Test for England
England’s squad now have a full 24 hours of extra rest after their thrilling win over Italy. Manager Sarina Wiegman has made it clear the team kept a close watch on every minute of Germany v Spain, searching for weaknesses and opportunities.
Facing Spain means England must confront a team overflowing with momentum and confidence. Spanish players, led by Bonmatí and supported by Esther González’s attacking threat, seem unstoppable. England fans will remember those near misses and heartbreaks against Spain, but the stage is now set for redemption and a chance to rewrite the story.
Germany’s strong Euro heritage and Spain’s recent world dominance both offered tough tests, but the final now features a rematch of the 2023 World Cup’s biggest stage. UK attention shifts to Basel, where England’s Lionesses aim to bring it home for a new generation.