From -12 to a second consecutive European title for Belgium: the massive heist in the final against Spain!
Spain, labeled as « weak » by too many observers when mocking France’s one-point defeat against La Roja in the EuroBasket 2025 semifinals, nearly silenced all critics this Sunday evening in the final. Dominating against the defending European champions Belgium, the Iberians were still leading by 12 points with 2 minutes 41 seconds remaining… before completely collapsing and watching Belgium retain their continental crown following an incredible comeback (67-65).
A surreal ending in Athens
These are images that will haunt the Spanish team for a long time. While they had the game in hand (65-53 with 2:41 left), Miguel Méndez’s players lost their composure, committing four turnovers and three fouls in the final minutes. On the other side, Belgium unleashed a 14-0 run to close the game and secure a second consecutive European title. And Emma Meesseman won a second MVP trophy, a historic first. The Fenerbahçe center wasn’t the top scorer (with 16 points). Like in 2023, Kyara Linskens delivered a superb final (17 points on 7/9 shooting and 6 rebounds in 31 minutes) while Julie Allemand scored 19 points on 7/11 shooting plus 4 assists.
The winning basket was scored by Antonia Delaere, following a crucial interception, taking advantage of a missed pass by Mariona Ortiz. La Roja, despite showing impressive control until then, couldn’t manage their lead nor respond to the defensive pressure imposed by the Belgian Cats in the final stretch.
WHAT DID WE JUST WITNESS???#EuroBasketWomen | #DareToDream pic.twitter.com/7mLqM0iAc7
— FIBA Women’s EuroBasket (@EuroBasketWomen) June 29, 2025
A defeat that puts France’s loss in perspective
This outcome somewhat changes the perception of France’s semifinal defeat (64-65). Heavily criticized for falling to a supposedly « weakened » team, Les Bleues now see their conqueror coming within one shot of winning the Euro. Far from insignificant, this Spanish performance confirms the high level of this team despite the absences.
Spain will have enormous regrets. Belgium, meanwhile, makes history by becoming the first nation to retain their title since Spain in 2019.
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