Spain’s Women’s Euro 2025 campaign has begun in dominant fashion, with three wins from three, 14 goals scored, and a quarter-final place secured at the top of Group B. Their victories over Portugal, Belgium, and Italy have showcased the strength of their squad, but four players have been particularly instrumental in their perfect start.
Alexia Putellas has been nothing short of sensational. Returning to the European stage after missing the 2022 edition through injury, the Barcelona midfielder has wasted no time reminding everyone of her quality. Across the first two games, she delivered three goals and three assists, leading Spain to emphatic victories. She followed that up with two more assists against Italy, equaling the record for most goal involvements in a group stage. Her creativity and control of play have made her nearly impossible to contain, averaging five chances created per 90 minutes—more than anyone else in the tournament. Her vision, composure, and precise decision-making continue to set the standard in European football.
While Putellas has grabbed the headlines, Patri Guijarro has quietly orchestrated Spain’s midfield with exceptional poise. Anchoring a trio that includes Putellas and Aitana Bonmati, she dictates the tempo and connects defense to attack with minimal fuss. She operates in a role that often goes underappreciated, yet her influence is undeniable—starting attacks, controlling transitions, and maintaining shape. Her contribution against Italy wasn’t just tactical; she also opened the scoring with a powerful low finish, underlining her ability to influence the game in multiple ways. Her consistency and selfless play allow Spain’s more attacking midfielders to thrive.
The emergence of Vicky Lopez, at just 18 years old, has added another layer to Spain’s fluid attack. Making her major tournament debut, she filled in admirably while Bonmati recovered from illness. In the opener against Portugal, she scored within the first eight minutes and linked up superbly with more experienced teammates. Though used as a substitute in the following matches, she continued to impress with her dribbling, awareness, and creativity. Averaging 5.1 successful dribbles per 90 minutes, she has shown a maturity and flair far beyond her years. Her ability to glide past defenders and create chances has made her one of the most exciting young talents in the tournament.
At the sharp end of Spain’s attack, Esther Gonzalez has been ruthlessly efficient. Often flying under the radar compared to her high-profile teammates, the experienced striker has stepped up as the tournament’s leading scorer with four goals in three games. Whether it’s a clever flick, a poacher’s finish, or a precise shot from close range, she has demonstrated a variety of finishing techniques and a sharp striker’s instinct. Averaging 2.3 goals per 90 minutes, no other player with significant minutes has been more effective in front of goal. Her smart positioning and ability to play off the last defender give her the edge in tight spaces and make her a constant threat.
Together, these four have been central to Spain’s dominant start, combining experience, skill, and youthful energy to fuel a formidable campaign as they chase their first European title.
