Spain Settles in Paradise (3-0)

On a night to remember, Spain—at its very best—conquered the Madrid sky, delivering a performance that words can barely describe. In front of King Felipe VI, the Spain women’s national team reclaimed the keys to paradise, proudly wearing their UEFA Women’s Nations League crown once again. They first lifted it in February 2024 at La Cartuja and now do so again with a memorable performance: a commanding 3-0 victory over a formidable Germany, following the 0-0 draw in the first leg. Sonia Bermúdez’s squad, achieving a first major title under her leadership, confirms there is no other team like this one—FIFA number one and once more continental champions. What a beautiful feeling.

Against a magnificent backdrop, with the record attendance soaring to 55,843 spectators, Spain was far more recognizable and reliable than in Kaiserslautern. After an admirable exercise in survival in the first leg, the team understood that controlling the ball and dictating the game was key; no team does it better. More alive, intense, and energetic, supported by a crowd that countered the thermometer with their unwavering support, Spain finally felt truly in control against a German side that took fewer risks in the second encounter. Yet one must never underestimate such a powerful opponent.

The opening minutes set the tone. Just five minutes in, Clàudia Pina sent Esther through on goal, one-on-one with Berger, but the forward’s shot went slightly wide, grazing the post. An early warning and an ambitious message: this team has not lost its drive to win.

Spain maintained positive momentum, controlling the game and staying vigilant to repel German advances. The visitors created few clear chances, but tension rose every time they approached the final third. Cata Coll, as always, remained confident and composed when tested.

Spain’s dominance intensified, especially in the minutes before halftime, though the numerous opportunities went unconverted. In the 38th minute, Mariona’s header went wide from a Pina cross. Vicky López tried a left-footed effort in the 45th minute that narrowly missed, and again Mariona, following a Vicky assist, was denied by a brilliant Berger save. Despite the efforts, the score remained level, and Spain left the first half with a scare: Anyomi broke through alone on Cata in the 48th minute but narrowly missed. It was, however, an isolated incident.

The contrast with the first-leg encounter could not have been clearer. The Metropolitano’s energy pushed the players forward, and the team looked comfortable—only the goal remained to be found. A tactical reset at halftime, some fresh legs, and back on the pitch.

Spain continued to control the game early in the second half, patiently waiting for their moment—which arrived at the hour mark. Clàudia Pina, ever the creative force, combined with Mariona to finally open the scoring at the Metropolitano. The stadium erupted, but the night was far from over.

That first goal ignited the team. Germany tried to react, but they were unprepared for the brilliance of 19-year-old Vicky López. The Madrid native unleashed a left-footed strike from outside the box to make it 2-0, sending the fans to their feet and confirming her status as a generational talent. With the second goal, Spain was just one step away from another trophy.

Spain managed the lead carefully, but the team continued attacking. Sensing a German side that was tired and struggling for options, Pina struck again in the 74th minute with a powerful long-range effort, her eighth goal of the Nations League, securing a memorable 3-0 scoreline. At last, Spain could enjoy a night to remember.

The final whistle brought satisfaction and applause. Spain had done the work, and the crowd responded with a phenomenal match and three stunning goals. Success continues to arrive, and the best part: this is a team built to last—a truly remarkable squad.