'Everything is better' An unsolicited kiss has transformed women's football in Spain

For years, they fought on many fronts: pushing back against the misogyny, misconduct and mistreatment of their football federation while seeking to be the best in the world.

- Ashifa Kassam

For years, they fought on many fronts: pushing back against the misogyny, misconduct and mistreatment of their football federation while seeking to be the best in the world. The conflicts of Spain's women's team exploded into public view after they won the World Cup in 2023 - a historic triumph almost immediately overshadowed by an unwanted kiss on the lips from the country's football chief.

Last night, La Roja took to the field for their first match of the Women's Euro 2025 tournament in Switzerland, which is set to be a showcase of the squad's prowess on both battlefields. Widely seen as the favourites, they have also become a symbol of women's fight for equality.

"These players represent a 'before and after' for all young girls who want to play football," said Joanna Pardos, a film director. Her Netflix documentary It's All Over: The Kiss That Changed Spanish Football delves into the long-running push for equal treatment that was thrust into the spotlight after Luis Rubiales planted an unsolicited kiss on the player Jenni Hermoso.

"Rubiales' terrible behaviour at the World Cup was like the straw that broke the camel's back," said Pardos. "In a way, it was like the tip of an iceberg. I wish it hadn't happened because it was disgusting, but the kiss helped to expose the iceberg underneath."

Before the World Cup, 15 La Roja players faced public smears and belittling by some media outlets after they refused to play for Jorge Vilda, the then coach, complaining about his tactics, training methods and controlling style.