Euro 2025 daily newsletter: Day eighteen
Spain through to semi-finals, hosts out, and France face Germany in last quarter-final clash
After a historic and inspiring run, Switzerland’s Euro 2025 journey has come to an end with a 2-0 defeat to Spain, the reigning world champions. Spain displayed their trademark patience and persistence, wearing Switzerland down until the breakthroughs finally came in the second half. It could have – and should have – been 4–0 instead, after both Mariona Caldentey and Alexia Putellas missed penalties. What a bizarre trend of penalty drama in this tournament!
Fortunately for Spain, goals from Athenea del Castillo and Clàudia Pina were enough to comfortably secure their place as semi-finalists. They now await the winner of tonight’s clash between France and Germany.
Despite the loss, Switzerland shared heart-warming moments with their home crowd, and they have much to be proud of, reaching their first ever knockout stage in a major women’s tournament. With a talented new generation, Switzerland’s success feels like the start of a new era for women’s football in the country. The visibility, excitement, and support generated throughout the tournament have laid strong foundations, and this looks to be just the beginning for Swiss women’s football.
News
Switzerland are the first team ever in the Euros to name three teenagers in their starting lineup: Iman Beney (18), Sydney Schertenleib (18), and Leila Wandeler (19).
Spain’s Laia Aleixandri is suspended from Spain’s semi-final after receiving a second consecutive yellow card in this match.
What’s on today
France vs Germany - 20:00 BST - St Jakob-Park, Basel
A blockbuster quarter-final takes place this evening with both teams battling for the last semi-finalist spot. France have won all three of their games so far, but Germany are eight-time European champions.
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