'A different world' - Spain's transformation after World Cup fallout

The Euro 2025 final between Spain and England is a direct rematch of the 2023 Women's World Cup final, marking only the second instance of the same fixture occurring in consecutive women's major tournaments.

Spain's previous appearance in a major final during the 2023 World Cup was a watershed moment for the nation, as they secured their first major women's trophy by defeating England 1-0. However, this historic victory was overshadowed by controversy, with the players soon embroiled in a high-profile sexism scandal.

Immediately after the win, Luis Rubiales, the president of Spain's football federation, kissed striker Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy celebration. Rubiales claimed the kiss was consensual, but Hermoso disputed this, leading to a court case that found Rubiales guilty of sexual assault. Hermoso stated the incident had "stained one of the happiest days" of her life.

In response, 81 Spanish players, including all 23 World Cup winners, declared they would not play for the national team while Rubiales remained in charge. England midfielder Ella Toone later described this as a "difficult period" for the Spanish players.

Nearly two years later, Spain's team, La Roja, is preparing to face England's Lionesses again in the Euro 2025 final on Sunday, 27 July at 17:00 BST at St Jakob-Park in Basel. The match raises questions about the developments since the scandal and how this tournament differs for Spain.