MATCH REPORT | The Metropolitano Will Decide

Spain’s fourth final in two years began at the cold Fritz-Walter-Stadion in Kaiserslautern, with all the tension characteristic of a match of this magnitude. The national team, sporting their new kit, started with the firm intention of controlling possession, although in the opening stages the defence was put under pressure by several German attacks.

Cata Coll first, and Irene Paredes just a minute later, saved two highly dangerous balls off the goal line around the half-hour mark. Germany imposed their tempo while Sonia Bermúdez’s side tried to bring calm to a frantic spell, with goalkeeper Pòrtol at her best.

Spain came out more incisive in the second half, edging closer to Berger’s goal. Three minutes after the restart, Alexia tested her luck, but her shot drifted narrowly past the post. Moments later, a superb move down the right by Mariona ended with Esther striking the ball against the woodwork.

After a couple of corners taken by the Germans, Sonia Bermúdez made her first substitution, bringing on Eva Navarro for Claudia Pina. In the 70th minute, hearts stopped in the German stadium when Bühl also hit the post. Spain’s tactical board shifted again with the introduction of María Méndez and Athenea del Castillo, replacing María León and Aitana Bonmatí in the 76th minute. It would not be Spain’s last change. In the 85th minute, Edna Imade experienced her dream moment: her debut with the national team. She came on for Esther González and nearly connected with a ball inside the box.

The first leg ended as it began, with a goalless draw, leaving everything to be decided in the return match. Ninety minutes still remain before the 2025 Nations League champion is crowned. The decisive match will take place next Tuesday, 2 December, at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid at 18:30.