On April 4, 2025, the women's national teams of Portugal and Spain clashed in an electrifying match at the Estádio da Mata Real in Paços de Ferreira, as part of the third matchday of the Women’s Nations League. The stakes were high for both teams, with Spain needing a victory to stay competitive in their group after a recent defeat to England. With the home crowd behind them, Portugal aimed to maintain their lead in Group A3, making this encounter a thrilling spectacle for football fans.
Kickoff was set for 20:45 hours, and the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. The match was broadcast live on La 2 and streamed online via RTVE Play, ensuring that fans could follow every moment of the action. Spain, under the guidance of coach Montse Tomé, fielded a formidable lineup featuring key players such as Alexia Putellas, Aitana Bonmatí, and Claudia Pina, who were all eager to make their mark in this crucial fixture.
As the match commenced, Portugal demonstrated their intent early on, creating two immediate chances that tested Spain's defense. However, it was Spain that struck first, with Patri Guijarro finding the net after a well-placed cross from Aitana Bonmatí, putting the visitors ahead 1-0. This goal came as a relief for the Spanish side, who were looking to bounce back from their previous loss.
The Portuguese team, known for their resilience, was quick to respond. Just two minutes after conceding, Catarina Amado capitalized on a mistake by Spanish goalkeeper Cata Coll, who misjudged the distance to the ball. Amado’s calm finish brought the score to 1-1, reigniting the hopes of the home fans.
Spain, however, was not to be deterred. They regrouped and quickly regained control of the match. Claudia Pina, instrumental throughout the game, provided a pinpoint assist to Laia Aleixandri, who scored to make it 2-1 just before halftime. The momentum shifted firmly in Spain's favor when Pina herself scored shortly after, extending the lead to 3-1.
As the second half began, Spain maintained their pressure, but a controversial penalty was awarded to Portugal when Jana Fernández was deemed to have fouled Joana Marchão just inside the box. Carole Costa stepped up and converted the penalty, narrowing Spain's lead to 3-2 and reigniting the contest.
With the match hanging in the balance, both teams pushed for a decisive goal. Portugal, buoyed by their home crowd, sought to equalize, but Spain's defense, led by Irene Paredes and Olga Carmona, held firm under pressure. In a dramatic turn, Esther González, returning to the national team after injury, sealed the victory for Spain with a goal in the dying moments of the match. After a strong save from Inês Pereira, González capitalized on the rebound, making it 4-2.
This victory not only marked a significant moment for Spain but also allowed them to reclaim the second position in their group with six points, just one point behind England. The match showcased the depth of talent in the Spanish squad and their determination to defend their Nations League title.
Post-match, coach Montse Tomé expressed her satisfaction with the team's performance, highlighting the importance of the win in their quest to advance in the tournament. "We needed this victory to stay in contention, and the players showed great character and skill throughout the match," she remarked.
For Portugal, the result was a disappointment, but they remained competitive against a strong Spanish side. Coach Francisco Neto noted, "We fought hard and showed our capabilities, but we need to refine our game to capitalize on our chances better." Despite missing key players like Kika Nazareth and Jéssica Silva due to injuries, Portugal demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline, suggesting they will remain a formidable opponent in future encounters.
Looking ahead, Spain will face England in June, a match that will be pivotal for both teams as they vie for qualification to the semifinals of the Nations League. The next encounter between Portugal and Spain will take place on April 8, 2025, in Vigo, promising another thrilling chapter in this burgeoning rivalry.
As the Women’s Nations League progresses, both teams will be looking to build on their performances and secure their places in the next stages of the tournament, with Spain now firmly back in the hunt for the title.
