Ahead of Euro 2025 Final, Spain Captain Discusses Women’s Football Evolution

Irene Paredes, Spain’s national team captain, shared her perspective on the changing attitudes towards women’s football in her country — particularly following the team’s 2023 World Cup triumph in Australia.

The world champions have now reached their first European Championship final and will face old rivals England — in a rematch of the World Cup final where Spain secured a 1-0 victory.

“That way of thinking is disappearing from society,” Paredes stated during a press conference. “We still have to keep opening doors and normalizing situations that are becoming more and more natural.”

Head coach Montse Tomé emphasized that her team can now fully focus on football — with improved facilities and preparation compared to last year’s World Cup.

Approaching the final against England, Paredes indicated her team isn’t burdened by favorite status.

• Spain has never progressed beyond quarter-finals in the last four tournaments
• England as defending champions aim to retain their title
• The final match will take place in two days

“We see this as an opportunity to continue making history and show what we’re capable of,” Paredes concluded.