Spain eliminate Belgium from Euro 2025
Spain 6 - 2 Belgium
Alexia Putellas delivered a masterclass in creativity and composure as Spain reinforced their status as Euro 2025 favourites with a commanding win over Belgium
Author | Jack L
Stadium | Stockhorn Arena
Putellas scored twice and provided two assists in a performance that highlighted her enduring class and influence. After making a flying start in their opener against Portugal, Spain took a little longer to find their rhythm in Thun, but once they did, they took full control.
She opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a rifled finish following a neat exchange with Vicky Lopez. Belgium responded almost immediately, with Justine Vanhaevermaet rising above the defence to head in Tessa Wullaert’s corner.
Spain regained the lead six minutes before the break when Irene Paredes, back in the side after suspension, powered home a header from a set-piece.
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There was more drama after the restart when Hannah Eurlings shrugged off Ona Batlle and fired past Adriana Nanclares. The goal was initially flagged but allowed to stand after a VAR review confirmed Eurlings had timed her run perfectly.
Once again, Spain responded without delay. Putellas split Belgium’s defence with a perfectly weighted pass, allowing Esther Gonzalez to finish clinically. Mariona Caldentey added a fourth just past the hour mark, prodding home from close range.
Spain dominated the closing stages. Claudia Pina bent in a brilliant fifth with nine minutes remaining before Putellas applied the finishing touch with a clever flick to round off the scoring.
Their progression to the knockout stages was confirmed later on Monday evening when Portugal and Italy shared a 1-1 draw.
Spain v Belgium highlights eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com youtu.be/dH-8NBR47bw?...
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Who stood out?
Putellas once again proved why she was named the world’s best player in 2021 and 2022. With Aitana Bonmati sidelined as she recovers from viral meningitis, the Barcelona midfielder has stepped up with authority and leadership.
She was directly involved in four of Spain’s six goals and showed both finesse and instinct throughout. Her understanding with Lopez led to the opening goal, and her final touch in the 86th minute was instinctive and precise.
While she played no part in Pina’s spectacular strike, her assist for Gonzalez’s goal was outstanding, slicing through Belgium’s back line with a moment of pure quality.
Two games, 11 goals, and two Player of the Match awards. Spain are cruising, and Putellas is the one setting the pace.
