Alexia Putellas delivered a masterclass in Thun, scoring twice and assisting two more as reigning world champions Spain stormed into the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 quarter-finals with a 6-2 demolition of Belgium at the Stockhorn Arena.
La Roja, who had opened their campaign with a record-fast goal in the 2nd minute against Portugal, took a little longer to get going this time. But once they did, they underlined exactly why they are among the favourites to lift the trophy.
Putellas opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a rifled finish after a slick move involving Vicky López. However, Belgium responded quickly, as Justine Vanhaevermaet powered in a header from a Tessa Wullaert corner just two minutes later.
Spain regained control before the break when returning captain Irene Paredes—suspended for the opener—rose highest to head home and restore their lead in the 39th minute.
Belgium continued to show resilience early in the second half, and VAR had to confirm that Hannah Eurlings was just onside before she shrugged off Ona Batlle and fired past Adriana Nanclares to make it 2-2.
But again, Spain had an instant reply. Putellas split the Belgian defence with a perfectly timed through-ball for Esther Gonzalez, who coolly slotted in Spain’s third. From there, Montse Tomé’s side turned on the style.
Mariona Caldentey poked in a fourth just after the hour mark, before Claudia Pina curled in a sublime effort from the edge of the box in the 81st minute. Putellas capped off a sparkling display with a clever flick to complete the scoring five minutes later.
Later in the evening, Spain’s spot in the knockout stage was confirmed when Portugal and Italy played out a 1-1 draw, which also officially eliminated Belgium from the competition.
Main Talking Point
Despite the emphatic scoreline, Belgium offered much more resistance than Portugal did in Spain’s opener. The Red Flames twice pegged Spain back with equalising goals, but each time the champions raised their intensity and restored their lead almost immediately.
That ability to shift gears, especially in pressure moments, further affirms Spain’s credentials as the team to beat. Their quality in midfield—despite missing Aitana Bonmatí due to illness—and devastating attacking depth ultimately overwhelmed Belgium.
Star Performer: Alexia Putellas
Putellas once again showed why she was twice named the world’s best player. The Barcelona midfielder orchestrated play with poise, precision, and vision, and was directly involved in four of Spain’s six goals.
She combined brilliantly with Vicky López for the opener, laid on a sensational assist for Gonzalez, and had the final say with her deft flick to make it 6-2.
Stepping up in Bonmatí’s absence, the 31-year-old has been the heartbeat of Spain’s midfield, and now has two Player of the Match awards in as many games.
Other Standouts
Irene Paredes: The captain made her return count, becoming Spain’s oldest scorer at a major tournament at 34 years and three days. Esther Gonzalez: A constant threat in the box, her goal to make it 3-2 broke Belgium’s resistance. Claudia Pina: Scored arguably the goal of the game with a curling strike into the top corner.
Notable Stats
Putellas became just the second player on record (since 2013) to be directly involved in four or more goals in a single UEFA Women’s European Championship match. The only other player to do so is Beth Mead, who had three goals and an assist against Norway in 2022. Paredes’ goal means she overtakes Jenni Hermoso (33 years, 88 days) as Spain’s oldest scorer at a major tournament, setting a new benchmark.
What’s Next?
Spain will wrap up Group B against Italy at Bern’s Wankdorf Stadium on Friday (20:00 BST), aiming to secure top spot and maintain their perfect record. Already eliminated Belgium will face Portugal in Sion at the same time in what will be a dead-rubber clash.