Spain have advanced to the semi-finals of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 after a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Switzerland on Friday at the Wankdorf Stadium in Bern.
Second-half goals from Athenea del Castillo and Claudia Pina secured the win for La Roja, who are aiming for their first-ever European title. They will face either France or Germany in the semi-final on Wednesday.
Despite the scoreline, hosts Switzerland put up a resilient performance in front of nearly 30,000 home fans. Spain were awarded an early penalty, but Mariona Caldentey failed to convert in the ninth minute, dragging her shot wide after being fouled by Nadine Riesen.
The Swiss defence held firm throughout the first half, frustrating Spain’s usually fluent attacking play. Before the break, Irene Paredes struck the post from a corner, and Esther Gonzalez hit the woodwork again during a frantic scramble.
The breakthrough came in the 66th minute when del Castillo, just four minutes after coming on, slotted home a pass from Aitana Bonmati to finally breach the Swiss defence. Five minutes later, Pina sealed the win with a stunning strike.
Spain had a chance to add a third late on after being awarded another penalty, but Alexia Putellas’ effort was saved by Swiss goalkeeper Livia Peng. Switzerland ended the game with 10 players after Noelle Maritz was sent off in the dying moments.
Despite the defeat, it was a historic tournament for Switzerland, who reached the Euro knockout stage for the first time ever and earned admiration for their spirited campaign under coach Pia Sundhage.
