Spain Women's Brilliant Attacking Display Secures 6-2 Victory Over Belgium Women, All but Assuring Quarter-Final Berth

Spain Women's Brilliant Attacking Display Secures 6-2 Victory Over Belgium Women, All but Assuring Quarter-Final Berth

In a dominating performance, Spain Women showcased their attacking prowess to dismantle Belgium Women 6-2 in their Euro 2025 group match on Monday, putting them within touching distance of the quarter-finals. Should Portugal fail to beat Italy in the subsequent game, Spain's quarter-final spot will be confirmed.

Spain started the game stronger, taking the lead midway through the first half thanks to a goal from Alexia Putellas, assisted by Vicky Lopez. However, they briefly found the going tough as Belgium equalized two minutes later via a Justine Vanhaevermaet header off a corner. Belgium's confidence lasted until six minutes before half-time when Spain scored from a corner of their own, with Irene Paredes heading home emphatically.

The second half saw more twists, as Belgium's Hannah Eurlings broke through on goal and finished well. The offside flag went up, but the semi-automated offside technology gave the goal. This Belgian joy was short-lived, as Putellas showed her skill to release Esther Gonzalez for Spain's third goal just 90 seconds later.

Spain increased their lead to 4-2 at the hour mark when WSL Player of the Season Mariona Caldentey scored from a corner. Spain kept pushing forward, with Putellas denied by the woodwork and Caldentey coming close again. Eventually, Claudia Pina scored a trademark long-range goal for 5-2, before Putellas got her second from close range.

Belgium had a Tresa Wuillert consolation goal ruled out for offside, but Spain's dominance was evident in their 33 shots on goal. While Belgium gave them a couple of scares, this Spanish team looks formidable.

Analysis: Spain will take some stopping

Spain's previous record for goals at a European Championships stood at six. This tournament, they've managed 11 after just two games to shatter the record books. They've even done it with eight different goalscorers.

If there was any doubt, there shouldn't be now: Spain have the best attack in the tournament. Alexia Putellas was the standout player against Belgium, taking on the midfield leadership from Aitana Bonmati, who was only fit enough for the second half. Esther Gonzalez has three goals already in this tournament, while 18-year-old Vicky Lopez showed her bright potential with a great first half display.

With Patricia Guijarro so crucial in that midfield as well, there isn't enough room to fit all of these attacking talents to play at once. Despite the scoreline taking the form of a thriller, Spain absolutely battered Belgium with over 30 shots on goal.

The world champions are making a real statement here - and while Barcelona's Champions League final performance shows it can all come crashing down,