Putellas leads Spain with records and routs in Euro 2025 toward quarters

The Women’s Euro 2025, which began in July, has Spain as a standout, led by captain Alexia Putellas, who scored four goals and provided key assists in the first two matches. With commanding wins over Portugal (5-0) and Belgium (6-2), the team secured a spot in the quarterfinals. On Friday, July 11, Spain faces Italy to claim the group lead in a match promising a balance of talent and strategy. Under coach Montse Tomé, the squad blends youth and experience, with Putellas as the centerpiece. The campaign strengthens Spain’s favoritism and hopes of winning the title, which could yield up to 5.1 million euros in prize money. The squad’s strength and the captain’s historic performance elevate women’s football to new heights.

Spain’s journey impresses with its consistency and efficiency. The attack, with 11 goals in two games, reflects the team’s technical quality. Putellas, contracted with Barcelona until 2026, leads the midfield with precise passes and game vision. The defensive solidity, conceding just two goals, complements the performance. The clash against Italy, scheduled for tonight, will be a crucial test to maintain their unbeaten run.

Spanish dominance on the pitch

Spain arrived at Euro 2025 with meticulous preparation. Intense friendlies and tactical adjustments bolstered a playing style based on possession and high pressing. The team averaged 68% possession, controlling the pace of matches.

• Lethal attack: 11 goals in two games, with standout finishing efficiency.
• Solid defense: Only two goals conceded, both against Belgium.
• Putellas’ prominence: Four goals and two assists, leading the tournament’s scoring charts.
• Tactical cohesion: The blend of youth and experience ensures versatility.

Montse Tomé’s work as head coach has been pivotal. The tactical overhaul prioritizes constant movement and space exploitation, unsettling opposing defenses. The squad’s confidence is evident, especially after the opening routs.

Alexia Putellas’ historic records

Alexia Putellas made history against Belgium, becoming the first player to score two goals and provide two assists in a single Women’s Euro match. Her performance in the 6-2 victory was a milestone, showcasing her ability to decide games. The captain, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, is at her technical and physical peak.

Beyond her on-field impact, Putellas is a global icon. With 3.2 million Instagram followers, she influences trends and attracts brands. Each sponsored post earns around 8,500 euros, according to sports marketing experts. Her image boosts women’s football visibility, inspiring new generations.

Her journey with Barcelona is equally impressive. Extended until 2026, she is the highest-paid player in Liga F, earning between 600,000 and 650,000 euros annually, including bonuses. However, this figure reflects an exception in a landscape of salary disparities in Spanish women’s football.

Unprecedented prize money in Euro 2025

UEFA allocated 41 million euros for the Women’s Euro 2025, a significant increase from previous editions. The winning federation could receive up to 5.1 million euros, depending on performance. A novelty is the direct distribution to players:

• Between 30% and 40% of the prize money will go to the athletes.
• In knockout stages, this percentage could reach 45%.
• Spain, if crowned champions, would secure a substantial sum for its squad.

This measure acknowledges the players’ importance and encourages investment in infrastructure. The tournament’s financial growth reflects the rise of women’s football, with packed stadiums and increased sponsor interest.

Salary challenges in women’s football

Despite Putellas’ prominence, Spanish women’s football faces inequalities. In Liga F, the minimum salary is 21,000 euros per year, low compared to other European leagues. In England, the minimum is 55,000 euros, while in France it’s 42,000 euros, and in Germany, 37,000 euros. In the United States, salaries are even higher, highlighting the need for greater investment in Spain.

At Barcelona, the average salary is 322,000 euros, but clubs like Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid offer lower figures. The disparity underscores challenges in professionalizing the sport, especially at less-resourced clubs.

Crucial clash against Italy

The match against Italy, set for this Friday, will be a tough test for Spain. The Italians, also victorious in their opening games, rely on a physical and organized style. Spain, however, trusts in Putellas’ creativity and the speed of its forwards to break through the opposing defense.

The rivalry between the teams is historic. In recent encounters, Spain had the upper hand, but Italy has evolved with young players and a solid tactical system. The packed stadium and live broadcasts across multiple countries amplify the match’s visibility.

Spanish squad: youth and experience

Spain’s team combines established stars with emerging talents. Players like Aitana Bonmatí and Irene Paredes complement Putellas’ brilliance, forming a cohesive unit. Bonmatí, with her game vision, is a key midfielder, while Paredes ensures defensive stability.

The Euro preparation included a tactical overhaul. The team prioritizes possession and high pressing, demanding intense physical conditioning. Player rotation, a strategy by Tomé, prevents fatigue and keeps the squad competitive.

Women’s football growth

Euro 2025 marks a turning point for women’s football. The tournament attracted major sponsors and record crowds, with sold-out matches. In Spain, the national team’s success reflects grassroots work by clubs like Barcelona, which invests in youth academies and infrastructure.

Icons like Putellas inspire young athletes. Women’s football schools in Spain reported a 25% enrollment increase over the past two years, per regional federation data. The tournament’s visibility drives the development of new talents.

Impressive numbers

Spain’s campaign boasts striking statistics:

• Prolific attack: 11 goals in two games, led by Putellas (four goals).
• Defensive efficiency: Only two goals conceded.
• Game control: 68% average possession.
• High intensity: The team sustains pressure throughout the 90 minutes.

These figures highlight Spain’s dominance, blending technique and aggression. Physical preparation has been a differentiator, enabling high-intensity plays.

Putellas’ off-field influence

Beyond her sporting impact, Putellas is a marketing powerhouse. Her image is tied to global brands, and her social media posts generate significant engagement. With 3.2 million followers, she is Spain’s most influential female footballer on Instagram. Each sponsored post strengthens her brand and attracts investment to women’s football.

Putellas’ visibility benefits the sport broadly. Sponsors have increased funding for tournaments and leagues, fueling the game’s growth.

Preparation for upcoming challenges

With a quarterfinal spot secured, Spain is planning its next steps. Potential opponents like Germany and England, also advancing strongly, are under analysis by the coaching staff. Tomé’s strategy includes tactical tweaks for each match, keeping the core lineup in top form.

The squad’s confidence is a strength. After the Belgium win, Putellas emphasized team unity and the need to stay focused. Spanish fans, filling stadiums and engaging online, provide vital support to the players.