England Seeks Competitive Edge From Extra Rest Ahead Euro 2025 Final Against Spain

England's Lionesses, managed by Sarina Wiegman, are preparing to face Spain in the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 final, benefiting from an extra day of rest after their semi-final victory over Italy. Wiegman, who has reached five finals in five major tournaments as an international manager—winning both Euros finals but losing World Cup finals—hopes this rest advantage will aid her team, especially following intense matches that included extra time and penalties. England showed remarkable resilience in their knockout games, with late equalizers and winners against Sweden and Italy, and have never before played three extra-time matches in a single tournament. Wiegman emphasized thorough preparation for all possible scenarios and expressed hope for a quiet match for goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, who is starting her first major tournament. England's impressive competitive record under Wiegman surpasses previous England men's and women's teams, highlighting the Lionesses as a significant success story in English football. The final, to be held at St. Jakob-Park in Basel, has garnered massive viewership, reflecting the nation's high expectations and support.