Spain and Germany Draw 0-0 in UEFA Women’s Nations League Final First Leg, Setting Stage for Decisive Clash in Madrid
Germany and Spain played a goalless draw in the UEFA Women’s Nations League final first leg, with Spain showing vulnerability but remaining in contention ahead of the decisive second match in Madrid.
- • The first leg of the Nations League final ended 0-0 between Germany and Spain.
- • Spain struggled with possession, achieving 56% compared to their tournament average of 65.8%.
- • Germany's tactical strategy successfully limited Spain's key players, including Alexia Putellas.
- • Spain goalkeeper Cata Coll made six critical saves to keep the match scoreless.
Key details
The first leg of the UEFA Women’s Nations League final between Germany and Spain ended in a 0-0 stalemate at the Fritz-Walter-Stadion in Kaiserslautern on November 28, 2025. Both teams fought fiercely, but neither could break the deadlock, leaving the title to be decided in the return leg at Madrid's Metropolitano stadium on December 2.
Germany's tactical approach effectively limited Spain's offensive flow, especially targeting key player Alexia Putellas. Spain, who usually enjoy higher possession rates, controlled the ball 56% of the time in this match compared to their tournament average of 65.8%, while Germany held 52.2%. This disruption hampered Spain's connection with forwards like Aitana Bonmatí, Mariona, and Clàudia Pina. Consequently, Spain managed only nine shots on goal to Germany's 19.
Spain’s goalkeepers, notably Cata Coll, delivered vital performances; Coll made six significant saves, crucially denying Germany in several attempts. Spain's defense, featuring Irene Paredes, faced early pressure but held firm. In the second half, Spain’s attacking efforts grew, with Alexia hitting near misses and Esther narrowly striking the post. Germany also struck the woodwork with Bühl, intensifying the contest.
Coach Sonia Bermúdez reflected on the encounter, acknowledging that Spain "did not play our best match and there are things to adjust." She introduced substitutes, including debutant Edna Imade, whose near-goal nearly gave Spain the lead. Player Alexia Putellas noted the toughness of the match, saying, "We expected it to be very tough." Goalkeeper Cata Coll underlined the challenge, commenting, "In football, you also have to suffer."
Although the draw leaves Spain still in contention, vulnerabilities exposed in their defensive structure and their inability to maintain usual possession levels highlight areas needing improvement ahead of the decisive second leg at the Metropolitano, where Spain will aim to clinch their third international title.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.