Germany – Spain Euro 2025 semi-final: intense clash in Zurich

On July 23, 2025, in Zurich, UEFA Women's Euro 2025 will offer a dream match: Germany will face Spain in the semi-finals, in a clash between two powerhouses of European women's football. The match will take place at the Letzigrund Stadium, in what promises to be a raucous atmosphere. At stake: a ticket to the grand final in Basel.

Semi-final schedule

England – Italy

A path fraught with obstacles for Germany

The German team reached the semi-finals thanks to a monumental effort. During the quarter-final against France, played on July 19th in Basel, the German women had to play with 10 men from the 10th minute onwards, after their central defender was sent off for pulling an opponent's hair. Reduced to a numerical disadvantage for over 110 minutes, they heroically withstood the French pressure. The score remained tied (1-1) until the end of extra time, before the Germans prevailed in the penalty shootout.

This heroic qualification has taken its toll. Several key players played the entire match in extreme physical conditions. On the eve of the semi-final, the German squad's level of freshness is a real unknown, even if their morale is sky-high.

A Spain that is calm and confident in its strength

For their part, Spain continues their flawless run. The reigning world champions, La Roja, haven't conceded a single goal in the knockout stage. In the quarter-finals, the Spanish women dispatched Switzerland convincingly (2-0), thanks to a well-oiled team effort and brilliant individual performances.

Aitana Bonmatí, already imperious at the 2023 World Championship, leads the Spanish team with masterful skill. Her ability to dictate the tempo, break lines, and liberate her teammates is a key asset. Around her, Clàudia Pina, Athenea del Castillo, and Ona Batlle bring speed, dynamism, and creativity. The Spanish team arrives in Zurich with a full squad, largely unaffected by injuries or fatigue.

A clash of styles, a clash of wear and tear

This clash pits two visions of football against each other:

Germany embodies discipline, defensive solidity, and a warrior mentality. Spain relies on technical mastery, ball movement, and collective pressing.

The determining factor will undoubtedly be physical freshness. The Germans are coming off an intense marathon and may need to rotate their squad to cope with the intensity of the Spanish game. Their goalkeeper, Ann-Katrin Berger, the hero of the penalty shootout against France, could once again play a crucial role.

For Spain, controlling the tempo will be crucial. If Montse Tomé's players can impose their fast-paced game and short passing sequences, they could quickly put a weakened German side under pressure. But beware: against such an experienced and mentally strong team, any lapse in concentration could be fatal.

Key players

For Germany:

Ann-Katrin Berger (goalkeeper): a veritable wall during the quarter-final against France, she embodies composure and experience. Sjoeke Nüsken (midfielder): invaluable in transition, she will be tasked with containing Spanish attacks and launching counter-attacks. Lina Magull (captain): a technical and moral leader, her role will be central to maintaining team cohesion.

For Spain:

Aitana Bonmatí (attacking midfielder): the orchestrator of Spain's play, she is capable of single-handedly changing the course of a match. Clàudia Pina (forward): decisive against Switzerland, she combines speed and clinical finishing. Ona Batlle (full-back): her ability to get past defenders and deliver crosses makes her a constant threat down her flank.

The mental challenge

While Spain are the favorites on paper, thanks to their strong team play and consistency, Germany have the advantage of experience in major tournaments. This team has proven it can endure hardship, sacrifice itself, and bounce back even in the worst situations. In women's football, that often matters more than statistics.

One of the keys to the match will therefore be mental and emotional management. The Germans, pushed to their limits against France, arrive with extra motivation. The Spanish, on the other hand, are under pressure to confirm their status.

Verdict expected on July 23

This semi-final promises an intense, technical, and emotional contest. Kick-off is on Wednesday, July 23rd at 9 pm. May the best team win – but above all, may women's football continue to shine.