FridayOL

The 2025 Women's European Championship kicked off with a bang, and Spain's clash against Belgium delivered a nail-biting encounter. While La Roja dominated possession for large stretches, Belgium proved a persistent threat, particularly from set pieces and during transition, keeping Spain's defence on high alert. Let's break down what happened, what you might have missed, and what's in store as the tournament unfolds.

Early Challenges for Spain

For the first 50 minutes, Spain's coach clearly had his work cut out for him. Belgium’s physicality and tactical discipline made it difficult for Spain to assert their usual dominance. The Red Devils consistently disrupted Spain's rhythm, forcing turnovers and creating opportunities from dead-ball situations. Spain’s midfield struggled to control the tempo, and their attackers found it challenging to penetrate Belgium's well-organized defence. The early stages of the match suggested a potential upset, with Belgium’s resilience and counter-attacking prowess causing significant concern for the Spanish side.

Belgium's Set-Piece Threat

A key aspect of Belgium's game plan was their effectiveness from set pieces. They consistently won headers and created dangerous moments in Spain's box. Their aerial prowess posed a significant challenge for Spain’s defenders, and the Spanish goalkeeper was forced to make several crucial saves. This highlighted a vulnerability in Spain’s defensive setup and emphasized the importance of addressing this area as the tournament progresses.

The Spanish Response: A Late Surge

Despite early struggles, Spain demonstrated their class in the latter stages of the game. A tactical shift, perhaps a change in formation or personnel, seemed to unlock Belgium's defence. The Spanish attack began to find more space, and their passing became sharper and more incisive. Two late goals ultimately decided the match, showcasing Spain's ability to respond under pressure and capitalize on opportunities. These goals were a testament to Spain's experience and determination to secure a winning start to their Euro 2025 campaign.

Looking Ahead for Spain and Belgium

This victory provides a crucial boost for Spain as they look to progress through the group stages. However, the close contest against Belgium highlights the need for improvement, particularly in dealing with set pieces and maintaining control of the midfield. For Belgium, despite the defeat, there's plenty to be proud of. Their performance demonstrated their competitiveness at the highest level, and they will be hoping to build on this display in their upcoming matches. The tournament promises to be full of surprises, and this opening game certainly set the stage for an exciting competition.

What's Next?

Stay tuned for further updates on all the action from Euro 2025! We'll be bringing you daily reports, analysis, and highlights as the tournament unfolds. Don't miss out on the drama and excitement of Europe's premier women's football competition!