Spain’s journey to their first-ever UEFA Women’s EURO final has been nothing short of spectacular, highlighted by the extraordinary resilience and talent of midfielder Aitana Bonmatí. After overcoming a serious health scare just weeks before the tournament, Bonmatí’s return to peak form has been a defining storyline of Euro 2025, culminating in a decisive goal in the semi-final against Germany that propelled La Roja into the final showdown on Sunday, July 27, 2025.
The 2025 European Championship has already offered thrilling drama, with nail-biting penalty shootouts in the quarter-finals setting the stage for a tense semi-final clash between Spain and Germany. Neither side managed to break the deadlock during regular time, showcasing disciplined defenses and tactical battles. However, it was Bonmatí, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, who provided the moment of brilliance that made history. In the 113th minute of extra time, she exploited a rare opening in Germany’s defense, firing an unstoppable shot past goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger to clinch a 1-0 victory.
This goal was not just a testament to Bonmatí’s skill but also her strategic preparation. She recalled, “We studied Berger and we realised sometimes she left the near post free. I didn’t think twice. I didn't want it to go to penalties.” The precision and confidence with which she struck the ball left the German goalkeeper stunned, sealing Spain’s place in the final alongside England.
Bonmatí’s path to this pivotal moment was fraught with uncertainty. On June 28, just two days before Spain’s scheduled departure to Switzerland for the tournament, she was hospitalized with viral meningitis. The illness cast serious doubts over her participation, with questions about her recovery timeline and fitness levels looming large. Spain’s head coach Montse Tomé managed her minutes carefully during the group stages to ensure she regained her strength without risking relapse. “She’s so eager, we have to hold her back a bit,” Tomé remarked, underscoring Bonmatí’s determination to return swiftly.
Throughout the group phase, Bonmatí’s appearances were measured: nine minutes in the opening 5-0 rout of Portugal, a half-time substitution in the 6-2 demolition of Belgium, and a full 90 minutes in the final group match against Italy. While other stars like Alexia Putellas and Mariona Caldentey grabbed headlines with goals and assists, Bonmatí quietly rebuilt her form, contributing crucial plays such as a backheel assist in the quarter-final win over Switzerland, which earned her the Player-of-the-Match accolade.
Spain’s overall performance in the tournament has been commanding. They conceded just three goals en route to the final, showcasing a blend of offensive firepower and defensive solidity. Their group stage was marked by emphatic victories: a 5-0 thrashing of Portugal, a 6-2 win over Belgium despite a mid-game scare, and a resilient 3-1 comeback against Italy where Athenea del Castillo, Patricia Guijarro, and Esther Gonzalez found the net. The quarter-final against host nation Switzerland saw Spain dominate possession (73% to 27%) and shots (23 to 4), with goals from del Castillo and Claudia Pina securing a 2-0 win.
The semi-final against Germany, eight-time European champions, was a sterner test. With both teams locked in a tactical stalemate after 90 minutes, extra-time loomed. It was in this crucible that Bonmatí’s class shone brightest. Her goal not only broke the deadlock but also underscored her reputation for delivering in big moments—a trait that has defined her career.
Bonmatí’s contributions extend beyond scoring. Last season, she recorded an impressive 19 goals and 15 assists and was among the top players in possession wins and duels in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Her relentless off-ball work and tactical intelligence complement her technical skills, making her one of the most complete midfielders in the world. “Three or four years ago, I decided that if I wanted to be a complete player, I had to do those things also,” Bonmatí told GOAL, highlighting her evolution.
Her accolades speak volumes. After shining at Euro 2022 where Spain reached the quarter-finals, she was pivotal in the 2023 Women’s World Cup victory over England, earning the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. She followed that with a second consecutive Ballon d’Or after Barcelona’s historic quadruple-winning 2024 season, which included a treble and a Champions League MVP award despite the final defeat to Arsenal.
Bonmatí’s recent performances have attracted admiration even from rivals. Keira Walsh, her former Barcelona teammate and England opponent in the upcoming final, praised her stunning semi-final goal: “That’s Bonmatí’s magic. Most players in that situation wouldn’t even consider shooting—they’d just cross it in. It was a fantastic goal.” Germany’s goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger also acknowledged the brilliance: “That’s the brilliance of a player whose abilities we all know well.”
Alongside Bonmatí, Athenea del Castillo has emerged as a vital partner in Spain’s attacking arsenal. The dynamic duo’s chemistry has been electric, with Athenea’s timely goals and assists complementing Bonmatí’s playmaking prowess. Athenea’s impact off the bench has been particularly notable, including crucial goals against Italy in the group stage and the quarter-final winner against Switzerland, set up by Bonmatí’s clever pass. Their telepathic connection has become the heartbeat of Spain’s offense, turning tight contests into moments of magic.
As Spain prepares to face England in the final, the stage is set for another historic chapter. Bonmatí, who has never hidden her ambition, is chasing the one major trophy missing from her glittering resume. “We want to keep making history,” she emphasized, embodying the spirit of a team hungry for continental glory. With her blend of talent, resilience, and big-game temperament, Bonmatí looks poised to deliver once again on the grandest stage.
The Euro 2025 final promises a thrilling spectacle, with Spain aiming to cement their place among Europe’s elite and Bonmatí striving to add the crown jewel to her illustrious career. The football world will be watching closely as this remarkable story of comeback, determination, and excellence unfolds.
