Spain's women's national football team showcased exceptional resilience as they staged a thrilling comeback to defeat Belgium 3-2 during their first match of the UEFA Nations League at Ciutat de València on February 21, 2025. The match saw Spain, reigning champions and favorites, overcome initial setbacks with late goals, giving them a strong start to the league.
The encounter began under the auspices of solidarity, as all proceeds were dedicated to the victims of the DANA storms, which had impacted Valencia earlier. This initiative not only highlighted the team’s commitment to their community but also set the stage for what would become an electrifying match. The Ciutat de València stadium, filled with passionate fans, echoed with excitement as the Spanish team took to the pitch.
Despite their superior status, Spain faced early challenges. Belgium struck first when Aina Toloba capitalized on defensive errors, scoring the opening goal just 18 minutes in. Spain's captain, Irene Paredes, inadvertently gifted the ball to Toloba after failing to clear it properly. This early setback put the Spanish team under pressure, but they responded with vigor, dominating possession and creating multiple scoring opportunities without finding the net.
Spain continued to press, but Belgium's defense remained sturdy, preventing several close attempts. Vicky López and Alba Redondo both came close to equalizing, but strong interventions from Belgian goalkeeper Nicky Evrard kept the score at 0-1 heading to halftime. Despite their superior ball control and attacking prowess, Spain's inability to finish left them trailing.
The second half began with Spain determined to adjust their strategy, substituting players for fresh legs and changing formations. The pressure mounted as the match progressed, leading to Belgium's unexpected second goal. Just as the Spanish offense seemed to be overwhelming the Belgian defense, Belgium countered and Wullaert scored, extending their lead to 2-0 at the 72nd minute, leaving Spain on the brink of defeat.
Under immense pressure, Spain knew they needed to act quickly. Five minutes later, Claudia Pina ignited hope for the nation by slotting home a powerful shot to cut the deficit to 2-1. This goal swung momentum back to the Spaniards just as they were threading composure back together and igniting their offense.
With new energy coursing through their veins, the Spanish team pressed forward relentlessly through the last minutes of regular time, seizing every opportunity and throwing everything they had at the Belgian defense. The equalizer came at the 92nd minute when Lucía García, who came off the bench to make her mark, scored with flair, directing the ball past Evrard. The stadium erupted with joy, symbolizing Spain's refusal to back down.
But the drama wasn’t over yet. Just as the match seemed destined to end as a draw, Martín-Prieto, also introduced late by coach Montse Tomé, completed the incredible turnaround by netting the third goal for Spain at the 96th minute. The jubilant players celebrated as the whistle blew, sealing the win. Spain had done the unthinkable, flipping the score from 0-2 to 3-2 within the dying moments of the game.
This victory not only secured Spain's initial three points of the tournament but also set the tone for their forthcoming encounter against England at Wembley. Reflections after the match were filled with pride and relief, as players expressed joy over the comeback. Lucía García remarked, "We knew we had to be patient and keep trying, and I’m glad we finally got the goals," emphasizing the team’s commitment to perseverance. Cristina Martín-Prieto echoed these sentiments, stating, "This victory goes to Valencia and all the people who supported us." Captain Paredes noted, "Winning is important, especially after the difficulties we've faced as a team.”
Spain will look to carry this momentum as they prepare for the high-stakes game against England, with hopes of defending their title and proving their strength on international grounds once again. This match, with its unforgettable twists and turns, reminded fans and observers alike of the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of football.