Spain booked their place in the semi-finals of the European Championship for the first time in 27 years with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over hosts Switzerland in Bern.
The reigning world champions endured a frustrating first half, missing two penalties and struggling to unlock a disciplined Swiss defence.
But second-half goals from Athenea del Castillo and Claudia Pina proved enough to seal progress and keep their title hopes alive.
Mariona Caldentey missed a golden early opportunity to open the scoring in the ninth minute, dragging her penalty wide after being fouled by Nadine Riesen.
Later, with Spain already ahead, Alexia Putellas failed to convert from the spot again, sending her effort straight at goalkeeper Livia Peng.
Despite the missed chances, Spain remained patient and eventually found a breakthrough. Substitute Del Castillo made an immediate impact, scoring just over three minutes after coming on with a composed low finish.
Pina doubled the lead in the 71st minute with a brilliant curling strike from the edge of the area, putting the result beyond doubt and silencing the home crowd.
“We were calm, we were confident. I knew we had to fight and must be patient,” said Aitana Bonmati after the win. “We are used to winning from the beginning. But real football is not like that, you have to compete for 90 minutes, especially at this level.”
Asked who she preferred to face next, Bonmati quipped, “If they can have extra time and are tired, even better for us.”
Spain will face either France or Germany in Wednesday’s semi-final as they continue their push for a maiden European title.
