Spain began their Women’s European Championship campaign with a commanding 5-0 victory over Portugal on Thursday, showcasing their dominance and title aspirations. Veteran striker Esther Gonzalez, 32, opened the scoring after just 87 seconds, becoming Spain’s oldest player at the tournament, before teenage sensation Vicky Lopez, 18, tapped in the second moments later.
Captain Alexia Putellas added a brilliant third goal in the 41st minute with superb control and finishing, marking her return to major tournament football after missing Euro 2022 due to injury. Gonzalez netted her second just before halftime, capitalising on a rebound to make it 4-0.
Spain maintained complete control in the first half with fluid passing and relentless attacking, leaving Portugal’s defence and goalkeeper Ines Pereira under constant pressure. Substitute Cristina Martin-Prieto completed the rout with a stoppage-time header, sealing an emphatic victory for Montse Tome’s side.
Despite their dominance, coach Tome may reflect on a slight dip in intensity in the second half, where only Martin-Prieto’s late goal added to the tally. Spain’s Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati, recovering from viral meningitis, came off the bench in the 81st minute as she works towards full fitness.
The match opened with a moment of silence for Portuguese forward Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car accident with his brother the previous night. Spain will next face Belgium on Monday as they look to build on their strong start in Group B.
