Uncover the key moments from Spain’s impressive 3-1 triumph over Italy, featuring standout contributions from Athenea and Guijarro that made history.
Introduction:
On a vibrant summer night at Stadion Wankdorf in Bern, Spain underlined their status as tournament favorites with a 3-1 comeback victory over a spirited Italy, sealing a perfect group stage at UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. The reigning World and Nations League champions were pushed to their limits by an ambitious Italian side, but ultimately found their rhythm through moments of individual brilliance and collective composure, finishing atop Group B with nine points from three matches.
A Night of High Stakes and Early Drama
With both teams already eyeing the quarterfinals, the final group match promised intensity—and delivered from the opening whistle. Italy, needing a statement against the group leaders, came out with intent and nearly stunned Spain in the 10th minute. Captain Elena Linari’s thunderous header rattled the crossbar, a warning sign that La Roja’s defense would not have an easy evening. See also: Belgium Edge Portugal as Both Bow Out
Seconds later, the warning became reality. Italy’s Martina Piemonte found space on the left and fired a low shot that ricocheted off a Spanish defender. Mariona Caldentey’s attempted clearance fell kindly for Elisabetta Oliviero, who reacted quickest to slam home her first international goal, sending the Italian bench into raptures and giving Italy a shock 1-0 lead.
Athenea’s Instant Response: A Goal of the Tournament Contender
Spain, momentarily rattled, responded with the poise of champions. Just four minutes after conceding, Athenea del Castillo provided a moment of pure magic. Picking up the ball on the right, she danced past a cluster of Italian defenders, exchanged a sublime one-two with Alexia Putellas—whose backheel flick was a touch of genius—and curled a brilliant first-time finish into the top corner. The equalizer was not just timely, but breathtaking in its execution, restoring Spanish belief and shifting the momentum.
Tactical Chess: Spain’s Possession vs. Italy’s Transitions
The remainder of the first half was a tactical battle. Spain, as ever, dominated possession, with Aitana Bonmatà orchestrating from midfield and Patri Guijarro probing for openings. Italy, however, remained dangerous on the break, with Sofia Cantore and Barbara Bonansea threatening to exploit Spain’s high defensive line. Both sides created half-chances, but neither could break the deadlock before the interval, leaving the match finely poised. See also: Hegerberg’s Hat-Trick Inspires Norway’s 4-3 Epic Comeback
Guijarro’s Precision: Spain Takes the Lead
After the break, Spain emerged with renewed urgency. Their patience was rewarded just four minutes into the second half. Another surging run from Athenea caused panic in the Italian box, and when the ball broke loose, Patri Guijarro pounced. Her first-time effort, struck low and true, clipped the inside of the post and nestled in the net—her second goal of the tournament and a testament to her growing influence in Spain’s midfield.
With the lead secured, Spain tightened their grip on the match. Their passing triangles and movement off the ball wore down the Italian midfield, while the defense, marshaled by Irene Paredes, began to snuff out Italian counters with increasing authority.
Italy’s Resistance and Giuliani’s Milestone
Despite trailing, Italy refused to fold. Laura Giuliani, earning her 100th cap in goal, produced several fine saves to keep her team in contention, denying Salma Paralluelo and Bonmatà with sharp reflexes. Italy’s attacking forays, though less frequent, continued to test Spain’s back line, with Linari and Piemonte both going close from set pieces.
Esther González Seals the Deal
As the match entered stoppage time and Italy pushed forward in search of an equalizer, Spain struck the final blow. Substitute Esther González, the tournament’s leading scorer, latched onto a clever through ball and finished clinically past Giuliani, making it 3-1 and sparking wild celebrations among the Spanish contingent. The goal not only sealed the win but also underscored Spain’s attacking depth and killer instinct.
Spain’s Group Stage Perfection: A Warning to Rivals
With this victory, Spain completed a flawless group stage campaign—three wins from three, a statement of intent to the rest of Europe. Coach Montse Tomé’s decision to rotate her squad, including three changes in defense and a first start for BonmatÃ, paid dividends, keeping the team fresh and competitive. Athenea’s dynamism, Guijarro’s control, and Esther’s finishing have marked Spain as the team to beat in Switzerland.
Yet, the performance was not without warning signs. Italy’s 13 attempts on goal exposed occasional Spanish frailties in transition, something quarterfinal opponents Switzerland will surely note. “We knew the most difficult game in the group would be Italy. These kinds of games demand that you are very alert,†Tomé reflected post-match.
Italy’s Progress: Pride and Promise
For Italy, the defeat was bittersweet. Despite the loss, results elsewhere ensured their progression to the quarterfinals for the first time in 12 years. Their spirited start, tactical discipline, and moments of attacking quality will give them hope ahead of a tough clash with Norway. Giuliani’s milestone and Oliviero’s breakthrough goal were bright spots on a night that proved Italy can compete with Europe’s elite.
Key Moments
10’: Linari’s header hits the bar; Oliviero scores moments later for Italy.
14’: Athenea equalizes with a stunning solo effort and combination with Putellas.
49’: Guijarro puts Spain ahead with a precise finish.
90+1’: Esther González seals victory in stoppage time.
The Road Ahead
Spain now prepares for a quarterfinal showdown with hosts Switzerland in Bern, while Italy faces Group A winners Norway in Geneva. Both teams advance, but it is Spain who march on with momentum and the aura of favorites, their blend of technical brilliance and mental resilience shining ever brighter as the tournament enters its decisive phase.
Spain 3-1 Italy: Goals by Oliviero (10’), Athenea del Castillo (14’), Patri Guijarro (49’), Esther González (90+1’). Spain tops Group B with a perfect record and set up a quarterfinal clash with Switzerland; Italy advances as runners-up to face Norway.
