Spain Clashes with Portugal: Complete Viewing Guide, Match Preview and Expected Lineups

Spain kicks off their UEFA Women's Euro 2025 journey on Thursday, July 3, facing neighboring Portugal in Group B action.

The current FIFA Women's World Cup holders enter as tournament favorites to claim the title in Switzerland this summer. However, their preparation has been disrupted by unexpected health issues affecting crucial squad members in recent days.

This marks Spain's fifth participation in the Women's European Championship. La Roja has yet to capture the continental crown, with their finest achievement being a semifinal appearance in 1997.

Portugal's Women's Euro debut came in 2017, but they have since secured qualification for three straight tournaments. Despite this consistency, Portugal has been unable to progress beyond the group phase in both Euro 2017 and 2022.

The two nations recently faced each other twice during the 2025 UEFA Women's Nations League. Spain controlled both encounters, securing a 4–2 victory in Paços de Ferreira, Portugal, followed by a commanding 7–1 triumph in Vigo, Spain.

Here is Sports Illustrated's comprehensive preview of this Group B encounter at Women's Euro 2025.

What time does Spain vs. Portugal kick off?

How to Watch Spain vs. Portugal on TV

Spain team news

The major development from Spain's camp involves health concerns affecting two vital players.

Last Friday, current FIFA Women's Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or champion Aitana Bonmatí received a viral meningitis diagnosis. The Barcelona midfielder was discharged from hospital on Sunday and has rejoined the Spain squad. Nevertheless, her availability for the tournament opener remains uncertain.

After Bonmati's hospitalization, Spain revealed that goalkeeper Cata Coll was battling tonsillitis. She is also expected to miss Spain's clash with Portugal.

Spain manager Montse Tomé informed reporters on Wednesday that both players showed "encouraging" signs regarding their potential participation.

Additionally, Spain captain Irene Paredes will be absent against Portugal due to a suspension stemming from a red card received against Czechia during Euro 2025 qualification. The defender will complete her ban following the Portugal fixture.

Spain predicted lineup vs. Portugal

Spain (4-3-3): Esther Sullastres; Ona Batlle, María Méndez, Laia Aleixandri, Olga Carmona; Patri Guijarro, Mariona Caldentey, Alexia Putellas; Clàudia Pina, Esther González, Salma Paralluelo

Portugal Team News

Barcelona talent Kika Nazareth suffered an ankle injury in March and has failed to recover sufficiently for Euro 2025 participation. The remainder of Portugal's roster should be available for selection.

The key question remains: What will manager Francisco Neto's starting formation look like? Following the concession of 11 goals across two matches against Spain this year, Portugal must prioritize defensive stability. Experienced striker Jéssica Silva may begin as a substitute and serve as a game-changing option if the match remains competitive.

Portugal predicted Lineup vs. Spain

Portugal (3-5-2): Patrícia Morais; Ana Seiça, Carole Costa, Ana Borges; Joana Marchão, Fátima Pinto, Andreia Jacinto, Andreia Faria, Catarina Amado; Ana Dias, Dolores Silva