Alexia Putellas netted the sole goal of the match as defending champions Spain triumphed over Sweden 1-0 in Gothenburg on Tuesday, securing their spot in the final of the UEFA Women’s Nations League with a commanding 5-0 aggregate score.
Putellas, who found the net twice during Spain’s 4-0 semifinal first leg victory last week, executed a superb finish just inside the area in the 75th minute after excellent play by her Barcelona teammate Clàudia Pina.
World champions Spain will face Germany in the final later this year after they overcame France in the other semifinal on the same day.
La Roja’s success against Sweden marks a strong beginning for new coach Sonia Bermúdez, who took charge following Montse Tomé’s resignation after the Euro 2025 final loss to England.
These were Bermúdez’s initial matches in her new role, and the performances in both will surely instill optimism.
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Both performances showcased contrasting styles. While Spain dominated Sweden in Malaga last Friday, they exhibited a more composed approach at the Gamla Ullevi.
In a match with few opportunities, the most significant chance of the first half fell to Spain defender Irene Paredes, who headed a Mapi León cross wide while unmarked at the far post.
Substitute Cristina Martín-Prieto sent a lob over the bar after halftime as both teams found it difficult to find a breakthrough before Sweden finally began to open up.
Stina Blackstenius had a penalty appeal dismissed when she collided with León and subsequently shot directly at Cata Coll, although the offside flag was raised shortly after.
Putellas then capitalized on the space that became available late in the match, curling her 40th goal for Spain into the top corner after being set up by Pina.
Sweden had an opportunity to equalize late in the game, with Coll making a double save against Filippa Angeldal and Evelyn Ijeh, but the tie had already been lost for Sweden, who like Spain were also beginning a new era under coach Tony Gustavsson.
