Clàudia Pina’s brace and Alexia Putellas’ set-piece magic lead Spain to a commanding first-leg win over Sweden in Málaga.
Match Overview
Spain delivered a statement performance in the first leg of the UEFA Women’s Nations League semifinal, dismantling Sweden 4–0 with a blend of tactical precision, midfield dominance, and clinical finishing. Goals from Clàudia Pina (2), Alexia Putellas (2), and relentless pressing left Sweden stunned and facing a steep uphill battle in the second leg.
First Half
Spain wasted no time asserting control. In the 11th minute, Alexia Putellas curled a stunning free kick into the top corner to open the scoring. The hosts continued to dominate possession and territory, with Clàudia Pina doubling the lead in the 32nd minute after a clever assist from Ona Batlle. Just three minutes later, Putellas struck againthis time from close range after a cutback from Vicky López.Sweden struggled to escape their half, with Spain’s high press and fluid midfield rotations suffocating any attempt at buildup.
Second Half
Spain continued to dominate possession and tempo. Sweden made changes to regain control, but Spain’s midfield trio Bonmatí, Putellas, and Pina remained in command. In stoppage time, Pina capped her night with a second goal, finishing off a well-worked corner routine in the 93rd minute. Sweden failed to register a shot on target, and Spain’s back line, anchored by Irene Paredes and Rocío Gálvez, ensured a clean sheet. Putellas’ second goal before halftime effectively ended Sweden’s resistance, allowing Spain to manage the game with confidence and control.
Player of the Match
Clàudia Pina (Spain) Two goals, tireless movement, and constant threat in the final third.
Tactical Insights
Spain’s 4-3-3 system allowed them to create consistent overloads on the flanks, with full-backs like Ona Batlle pushing high up the pitch and midfielders rotating intelligently to exploit space. This fluidity overwhelmed Sweden’s 4-4-2 shape, which struggled to contain Spain’s central combinations and wide switches of play. Moreover, Spain’s well-timed pressing triggers disrupted Sweden’s buildup repeatedly, forcing turnovers in advanced areas and denying the visitors any rhythm or control.
Match Statistics
| Stats | Spain | Sweden |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 64% | 36% |
| Shots (on target) | 13 (7) | 3 (0) |
| Passes (Accurate) | 635 (559) | 361 (297) |
| Corners | 3 | 2 |
| Fouls | 5 | 11 |
Spain take a commanding 4–0 lead into the second leg in Gothenburg. Their attacking fluency and defensive discipline make them strong favorites to reach the Nations League Final. Sweden will need a historic performance to overturn the deficit.
Spain blew Sweden away in Málaga with a performance full of precision, power, and poise. Clàudia Pina and Alexia Putellas led the charge, combining for all four goals in a first-leg rout that leaves La Roja firmly in control of the tie. Sweden now face a daunting task in Gothenburg. Their defensive shape collapsed under Spain’s pressure, and without a response in the second leg, their Nations League journey could end abruptly. Spain, meanwhile, are one step from the final and if they replicate this level, few would bet against them lifting the trophy.
Next Fixture
Second Leg: Sweden vs Spain October 28, 2025, at Gamla Ullevi, Gothenburg
Final (if qualified): November 28, 2025, depending on aggregate result
