Lionesses rivarly with Spain now hums with significance

At kickoff in the Euro 2025 final, England and Spain will be rivals. But before and after, many will be friends and allies, united by a common cause. Keira Walsh is determined to win on Sunday, to become a two-time European champion as part of the first-ever England team to defend a title at a major international tournament.

- JAMIE BRAIDWOOD IN ZURICH

But Walsh also wants Spain to enjoy their moment, to make up for what was lost. Spain will undoubtedly enjoy the occasion more if they beat England to add to their World Cup triumph, but Walsh was aware of the wider meaning.

England’s players were hurt after their World Cup final defeat to Spain in 2023; though what followed in Sydney was the greater injustice. Spain’s victory was overshadowed by Luis Rubiales kissing Jenni Hermoso without her consent during their trophy celebrations.

“I don’t think, for them, there was enough spotlight on how incredible they played and how incredible some of their players were,” Walsh said. “It was all about the other stuff that had gone on.” Spain’s stars lamented that there was not enough change in the country after winning the World Cup, now the focus is solely on them and the unique control they can bring to the pitch. “They play incredible football and they deserve to be there,” said Walsh. “As a human being I just want them to go out and just enjoy the game.”

Walsh’s two and a half years with Barcelona mean she has a deeper connection with several members of the Spain squad. When she felt homesick, the Spain captain Irene Parades would invite the midfielder to her family home for dinner. She grew close with many of their stars, such as Aitana Bonmati and Mariona Caldentey. But England stood as a collective with Spain after the World Cup final, even if they had not shared a dressing room or spent time as teammates. The Lionesses felt Spain were robbed of the boost they received by winning the Euros in 2022.