Spain's women's national team delivered a masterclass in Madrid, clinically defeating Germany 3-0 to successfully defend their UEFA Women's Nations League crown. The victory at a packed Estadio Metropolitano served as a powerful statement of their depth and quality, even in the absence of injured Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmatí.
A Record Night in Madrid
The world champions played in front of a record crowd of 55,843 for a Spanish women's national team home fixture, an atmosphere that visibly moved the players. Captain Alexia Putellas described the evening as "one of the most magical nights we've lived," dedicating the performance to the fans and reflecting on the team's role in inspiring a new generation. The comprehensive win also marked a quick return to the winners' podium for head coach Sonia Bermúdez, who secured her first major trophy within four months of taking charge.
Second-Half Blitz Seals the Trophy
After a goalless first leg in Germany, the final was decisively settled in a devastating 13-minute spell after half-time. Clàudia Pina broke the deadlock, cutting inside onto her right foot and firing a low drive that German goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger could not keep out. The brilliant Vicky López then arched in a delightful second goal, before Pina capitalised on a German passing error to complete her brace with a fierce strike into the top corner.
Spain had threatened earlier, with Putellas forcing a fine save from Berger and Mariona Caldentey missing a good chance, but their persistent pressure eventually told. The result also featured an emotional return for Jenni Hermoso, who came on as a substitute to a rapturous reception after being recalled to the squad this autumn.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
This victory adds the Nations League trophy to Spain's World Cup and confirms their status as the world's number-one ranked side. It also erases the recent memory of their penalty shootout defeat to England in the final of Euro 2025. For Germany, despite moments of promise on the counter-attack, a lack of a clinical finisher proved costly. Their captain, Giulia Gwinn, acknowledged the frustration of a 3-0 defeat but praised her team's effort.
With this title secured, Spain now turn their focus firmly towards the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil, signalling their intent to remain the team to beat on the global stage.
