Aitana Bonmati’s journey in the 2025 European Cup was awesome – from hospital beds to goals, bringing Spain to the first ever women’s European Championship final.
The 27-year-old midfielder reflects her whirlwind experience after Spain beat Germany in Zurich:
“I can write a book,” she said, answering a question about overcoming illness and becoming a hero in her national semi-finals.
Bonmati participated in the competition after she was hospitalized a few days before the Spanish Opening.
Despite her quick recovery, the two-time Ballon d’Or D’Or initially had to settle on the bench in Spain’s first two games.
But by the time the semifinals rolled, Bonmati obviously rediscovered her best form. In the 119th minute, she slid to Athenea del Castillo’s pass, beat the defender with a fake, and smashed the ball towards German goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger on the close post.
Spain ends German puzzle
Although Spain took ownership throughout the game, Germany dragged the game into overtime under coach Christian Wuck. For a long time, punishment seemed inevitable.
But Bonmati’s intervention changed everything.
“It’s not easy [Bonmati] At the beginning of the game, she had a special personality that could reach the highest level.
Her decisive goal came from a wise move between defenders Rebecca Knaak and Franziska Kett. Bonmati managed to squeeze the strike into the close corner despite the tight angle when receiving the ball on the round.
Bonmati’s goal triggered a crazy celebration of Spanish fans and players.
“When the ball came in, I started running and saw the bench standing, so I celebrated with them,” Bonmati said after the game.
“Scoring in a game like this is super special. If I can help the team write history, that’s special.”
She also thanks those who helped her fully fitness: “I have confidence in my mentality and physical condition. I want to find this game at my best level.
“Thanks to everyone who is next to me to help me reach this level.”
Looking to the UK
By defeating Germany for the first time in history, Spain played a sensational final against England this Sunday. This took nine attempts, but Spain finally broke their German curse to establish a rematch of the 2023 World Cup final.
“Today, I feel like we’ve written history again. This is the first time we were able to win the Women’s Euro final and beat Germany, which we haven’t had in the past,” Bonmati said.
“We are proud to be a generation of players.
“We can enjoy today. We have to start thinking about England tomorrow.”
