Lorraine Williamson
It was a night of high drama and fierce competition at the RCDE Stadium in Barcelona, as Spain came from behind to defeat England 2-1 in a pulsating UEFA Women’s Nations League match.
Despite a bright start from the Lionesses, it was La Roja who ultimately took control, booking their place in the semi-finals with a resilient and skilful second-half display.
England struck early
England looked sharp from the opening whistle, pressing high and playing with real purpose. Their early dominance was rewarded in the 21st minute when, assisted by Walsh, Alessia Russo found the net. Marking her 50th international appearance with her 22nd goal, Russo’s strike gave England a well-deserved lead and temporarily silenced the home crowd.
The first half ended 0-1.
Spain responded with determination
But Spain are never a side to crumble under pressure—especially not on home soil. The reigning world champions came out after the break with renewed energy, and their tactical adjustments quickly began to pay off. Barcelona striker Clàudia Pina, brought on as a second-half substitute, turned the tide in Spain’s favour. Her introduction injected a new level of dynamism into the attack.
Pina led the comeback
The equaliser came at the 60-minute mark as Spain upped the tempo and found space between England’s lines. Pina’s positioning and clinical finishing made all the difference, and the momentum shift was palpable. Just as England struggled to settle, ten minutes later, Pina struck again—this time sealing the comeback with a goal that sparked loud celebrations in the stands.
England faded as Spain surged ahead
Despite their promising start, England found themselves increasingly on the back foot. They struggled to recapture the control they had enjoyed early in the match and were punished for their lapses in concentration. Substitutions and tactical tweaks couldn’t halt Spain’s growing confidence.
Spain’s strength in depth showed
Spain’s second-half dominance was a reflection not only of their technical ability but also the strength in depth now available to the squad. Pina’s two-goal impact from the bench underlined the options at manager Montse Tomé’s disposal. This team, still glowing from their World Cup success, continues to grow stronger with every game.
Montse praised her team’s resilience and the impact of substitute Clàudia Pina. In the post-match press conference, Tomé highlighted the squad’s depth and adaptability, stating:
“Clàudia Pina’s performance was exceptional. Her ability to change the game demonstrates the strength and depth we have in our squad. The team’s response after conceding early shows our character and determination.”
For England, the defeat was a tough blow—not just on the night, but also in terms of their Nations League campaign, which now ends in the group stage. There will be positives to take from their first-half performance, but also questions about maintaining momentum and focus across 90 minutes.
Spain, meanwhile, march on to the semi-finals with renewed confidence. Once again, they have shown their ability to fight back, to adapt, and to win in style.
Finals and play-offs
The Women’s Nations League semi-finals and promotion/relegation play-off draws will take place on Friday at 1.00 pm. Contenders for the final are France, Germany, Spain, and Sweden.
The semi-finals will take place over 2 legs towards the end of October. The first team drawn will play the first leg at home against the second team drawn. The same will apply to teams three and four.
The two winners of each semi-final will then play against each other in the final, with the other teams battling it out for 3rd and 4th place. The finals and play-offs will also be two-legged. These are planned to take place at the end of November and the beginning of December.