Spain booked their place in the Women’s Euro Semi-Final after a composed and hard-fought 2-0 win over host nation Switzerland in Bern on Friday, July 18. Second-half goals from Athenea del Castillo and Claudia Pina sealed the victory, taking the reigning world champions one step closer to their first-ever European title.
Despite the scoreline, the quarter-final clash at the Wankdorf Stadium was anything but straightforward for Montse Tomé’s side, as Switzerland put up a spirited performance in front of nearly 30,000 passionate home fans.
Match Summary: Spain vs Switzerland
- Match: Spain vs Switzerland
- Tournament Stage: Quarter-Final
- Date: July 18, 2025
- Venue: Wankdorf Stadium, Bern
- Final Score: Spain 2-0 Switzerland
- Goalscorers: Athenea del Castillo (66′), Claudia Pina (71′)
- Missed Penalties (Spain): Mariona Caldentey, Alexia Putellas
- Red Card (Switzerland): Noelle Maritz (90+ min)
- Attendance: 29,500+
Spain began the match with early dominance and nearly took the lead in the ninth minute when Mariona Caldentey earned a penalty. However, the forward missed the target, firing wide, giving the Swiss side a boost. Despite the miss, Spain remained composed, patiently building play and pressing the Swiss defence.
Switzerland, ranked 23rd in the world, defended in numbers and frustrated Spain’s fluid style of play. The first half ended goalless, although Spain came close when Irene Paredes’ header struck the post just before the break.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Spain probing and Switzerland blocking almost every attempt. The breakthrough finally came in the 66th minute when substitute Athenea del Castillo latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from Aitana Bonmatí and calmly finished past Swiss goalkeeper Livia Peng.
Just five minutes later, Claudia Pina doubled the lead with a superb solo effort. After stealing the ball from Swiss captain Lia Wälti, Pina unleashed a stunning shot into the top corner from 20 yards out, putting the game out of reach.
With the 2-0 advantage, Spain had firm control, although drama unfolded in the closing stages when Alexia Putellas missed a penalty and Noelle Maritz was shown a red card for Switzerland.
Despite the loss, the Swiss team earned admiration from their home supporters. Switzerland had never progressed past the group stage in a Women’s Euro before and can be proud of their historic journey to the last eight.
Coach Pia Sundhage praised her team’s fight and the incredible support shown by the Swiss fans. “We lost the game but we’ve won a positive attitude for women’s football,” said Sundhage. She added that the atmosphere and engagement across the country show that the Women’s Euro Semi-Final is not just about football, but about social progress and recognition of the women’s game.
Switzerland’s dream of reaching the Women’s Euro Semi-Final may have ended, but they have sparked a new chapter for women’s football in their country.
Spain now march confidently into the Women’s Euro Semi-Final, where they will face either France or Germany in what promises to be another high-intensity battle. Coach Montse Tomé commended her team’s patience and composure despite early setbacks.
“This team made history,” she said. “We accomplished our goal and now we have to keep improving. The Women’s Euro Semi-Final will be another test of character and quality.”
Spain’s route to the Women’s Euro Semi-Final has been built on talent, depth, and mental strength. The missed penalties by Caldentey and Putellas didn’t derail their focus. Instead, it showed their resilience and determination to adapt under pressure.
Star midfielder Aitana Bonmatí once again showcased her class, controlling the midfield and delivering the assist for the opening goal. Her words summed up the team’s mentality: “We were calm and confident in our abilities. Sometimes you have to fight.”
What’s Next?
Spain will now face the winner of the quarter-final clash between Germany and France on Wednesday in the Women’s Euro Semi-Final. The momentum is with La Roja, but the challenge ahead will be even tougher as they inch closer to a first European title.
While their World Cup win was a landmark achievement, Spain are now aiming to complete their dominance with a European crown. The Women’s Euro Semi-Final provides a perfect platform for the Spanish side to continue building their legacy.
As for Switzerland, the Women’s Euro 2025 has been a milestone. The national team has won the hearts of the fans, and the future looks promising.
Also Read: Who’s Leading Womens Euro 2025 so Far? Top 10 Latest Power Rankings
FAQs
Q1: Who will Spain face in the Euro Semi-Final after beating Switzerland?
A1: Spain will face the winner of the England vs Netherlands match in the Euro Semi-Final, scheduled later this week.
Q2: When is the Euro Semi-Final scheduled to take place?
A2: The Euro Semi-Final featuring Spain will be played on July 24, 2025, at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
Q3: Has Spain ever reached the Euro Semi-Final before in the Women’s competition?
A3: Yes, but this is one of Spain’s most impressive runs to the Euro Semi-Final, showing their growing dominance in European women’s football.
