For England, the last World Cup final still feels like an unhealed scar. Lucy Bronze’s error that led to Olga Carmona’s decisive goal, Lauren Hemp’s shot hitting the bar, the chances missed, the momentum that never translated into success—it all contributed to the sense that a historic opportunity had slipped away. For the returning players and coach Sarina Wiegman, Sunday’s European Championship final presents a chance to make amends.
While England’s motivations are clear, their opponents also carry their own weight of unfinished business.
Redemption, the need to right past wrongs, the determination to secure their place in history—these will drive Spain in Basel. Winning the 2023 World Cup was a remarkable accomplishment, yet the aftermath was overshadowed by turmoil within their federation. This final, however, offers a fresh start.
Spain enter as favorites. They have been the standout team of the tournament, combining technical brilliance with disciplined defending, refining their possession game while adapting when necessary. Their progress has not just been confined to this competition but has gathered momentum throughout the year as roles solidified and confidence grew.
Yet, as the squad has repeatedly stated, Spain are playing for more than silverware. The conflict with their federation, the RFEF, reflects a broader fight for fairness and recognition. If their greatest achievement could be clouded by off-field strife, what did it truly signify?
The 2023 World Cup did not unite Spanish football as it might have. Before the tournament, 15 players had stepped away from the national team; three eventually rejoined. For a squad isolated overseas, torn between duty and solidarity with absent teammates, a tense compromise was struck with then-coach Jorge Vilda and federation officials. That fragile peace held only because of their pursuit of a first major title. Once achieved, the truce collapsed.
Looking back, Luis Rubiales’ unwanted kiss on Jenni Hermoso was merely the breaking point. The deep-rooted tensions in Spanish football had festered for years and might not have been confronted otherwise. Rubiales’ actions were indefensible, but what truly stung was the swift defense mounted by those in power.
Hermoso was pressured to appear in a video supporting him, and when she refused, a statement claiming the kiss was consensual was released.
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