Spain 2-0 Switzerland: World champions break through Swiss resistance to reach Euro 2025 Semifinals

Spain Women’s National Team are through to the semi-finals of UEFA Euro 2025 after grinding out a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Switzerland in front of a passionate crowd at Bern’s Wankdorf Stadium. The reigning world champions needed second-half brilliance to outclass the host nation, who gave everything in their historic quarter-final appearance.

Despite missing two penalties, La Roja finally found a breakthrough via goals from Athenea del Castillo and Claudia Pina, booking their first European Championship semi-final spot in nearly three decades. Spain will now face the winner of France vs Germany in Zurich on July 23, as they continue their quest for a first-ever European title.

Spain vs Switzerland: Full Match Review and Score Summary

Coming into the match, Spain Women were heavy favorites, having dominated the group stage with attacking flair and high possession stats. However, Switzerland Women, roared on by a sell-out home crowd, put up a defiant fight.

Spain dominated early proceedings but failed to capitalize on clear opportunities. A golden chance came in the 9th minute when Mariona Caldentey was brought down in the box by Nadine Riesen. She stepped up for the penalty, but dragged her effort wide of the post. The miss unsettled Spain’s rhythm as the Swiss defense remained composed and well-drilled.

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By halftime, the score was still 0-0, with Olga Carmona and Aitana Bonmati both blasting long-range efforts over the bar and Livia Peng, the 23-year-old Swiss goalkeeper, making vital saves to deny Spain's early momentum.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 57th minute. Spain’s head coach Vilda Martinez introduced Athenea del Castillo, who made an immediate impact, scoring just over three minutes after stepping onto the pitch. Her calm finish was a reward for Spain’s persistent pressure.

Claudia Pina then doubled the lead with a curling strike in the 71st minute, one of the best goals of the tournament so far, leaving Peng with no chance. Spain were now in control and never looked back.

Spain’s missed penalties and Swiss heroics

Surprisingly, even with a two-goal cushion, Spain had another chance to extend their lead from the spot. This time, it was Alexia Putellas, but her shot lacked power and was easily stopped by Peng.

While the two missed penalties may be a point of concern for Spain heading into the semi-final, they still managed to display their quality and depth, especially with the impact from substitutes.

Meanwhile, Switzerland Women’s team exit the tournament with heads held high. This was their first-ever UEFA Women’s Euro quarter-final, and they gave the world champions one of their toughest tests to date. Fans in Bern celebrated their team’s fearless spirit, with streets awash in red before kick-off and a vibrant atmosphere inside the 29,800-capacity Wankdorf Stadium.

Key Performers and Tactical Analysis

• Livia Peng (Switzerland): The standout player for the hosts. The new Chelsea signing showcased elite reflexes and positioning, keeping her side in the game with three spectacular saves.
• Noelle Maritz (Switzerland): The defender tightly marked Spain’s top scorer Esther Gonzalez, limiting her to a single shot on target all game.
• Iman Beney (Switzerland): The 18-year-old switched from her usual defensive role to striker, stretching Spain's backline and creating space on the counter.

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• Claudia Pina and Athenea del Castillo (Spain): Game-changers in the second half, both finding the net with confidence and composure.

Stat Highlights: Spain vs Switzerland Euro 2025

• Spain Women have now scored 16 goals at UEFA Euro 2025—third-highest in tournament history behind England (22 in 2022) and Germany (21 in 2009).
• Penalty Conversion Rate: Only 12 out of 25 penalties (48%) have been scored at Euro 2025, reflecting rising goalkeeping standards.
• Switzerland became the first team in Women’s Euros history to start three players aged 18 or younger in a knockout game: Sydney Schertenleib, Noemi Ivelj, and Iman Beney.

What’s Next?

Spain will now shift their focus to Zurich, where they’ll play either France or Germany in a blockbuster UEFA Euro 2025 semi-final clash on Wednesday, July 23 at 20:00 BST. With both teams boasting strong tournament pedigrees, fans are guaranteed another epic showdown.

As for Switzerland, their campaign might be over, but they have made history. From record attendance to fearless performances, Pia Sundhage’s team has ignited a new wave of interest in women’s football across the country.

Spain Women are just two games away from making history by adding a European crown to their 2023 World Cup title. But if today’s gritty win over Switzerland is any indicator, the road to Euro 2025 glory won’t be easy. With France or Germany lying in wait, the semi-final promises to be another thrilling chapter in this year’s unforgettable tournament.

SportsLigue