Everything is set in the El Pantano area of Villajoyosa for a memorable Saturday afternoon rugby spectacle at 17:00. The Spanish women’s team, known as Las Leonas, will chase their seventh straight European Championship in rugby union’s 15s format and aim for their tenth title in history. The nation’s top women’s rugby side has long enjoyed dominance across Europe, earning a legendary status in Spanish sport.
This year’s European Championship brings together national teams that did not participate in the VI Nations event, a competition historically shaped by France, England, Ireland, Scotland, Italy, and Wales. Beyond these powerhouses, Spain stands out as the premier rugby force across Europe.
Las Leonas will enjoy strong support from rugby enthusiasts across the province of Valencia and beyond as they seek a fresh European triumph against Sweden. The Spanish squad, led by coach Juan González, arrives in a moment of renewal after a notable victory. Earlier, they delivered a resounding 70-0 win over the Netherlands at the Pins Vens venue in Sitges on February 19, a performance that signaled their intent and depth.
At the venue, the panoramic vista of El Pantano is captured as the match location in La Vila and stands ready to host a pivotal clash that fans are eager to witness.
Sweden appears in Jonas territory after a 38-12 loss to the Netherlands. This places Sweden in the European Championship First Division, a switch prompted by Russia’s removal due to political sanctions following its war with Ukraine.
Contingent on victory, Spain would claim the crown they last held in 2013, with exceptions in 2014 and 2015 when participation lapsed. In 2017, the title was awarded by default as the tournament did not take place in Ireland due to scheduling. England, the second-most successful team with five titles, has not taken part in the European Championship since 2012 because of its ongoing involvement in the VI Nations.
Spain-Sweden, Europe XV Rugby women’s final at La Vila
Preparation for the final has seen a refreshed lineup, with a coach who emphasizes rebuilding energy and intensity after a six-month hiatus. The team opened the sequence with a 22-4 defeat to Italy in the VI Nations, followed by the dominant 70-0 victory over the Netherlands in Sitges, and now faces Sweden in what could be a defining moment for the program.
Prior to these matches, the Spanish XV had not trained together for nearly half a year. The return has brought nearly ten new faces and promising young talents into the fold, a deliberate strategy by the coach to raise the tempo and restore the level of competition Spain carried before the layoff. A triumph in this final would seal a remarkable comeback and possibly crown the team with its tenth female European title.
The squad list features Marta Estellés, Cristina Blanco (captain), Marieta Román, Anna Puig, Kasandra Sylla, Lucía Gayoso, Vico Gorrotxategui, Carmen Castellucci, Lucía Díaz, Zahía Pérez, Marta Carmona, Maider Aresti, Alba Vinuesa, Claudia Pérez, María Miguel, Sidorella Bracic, Cristina García, Alba Capell, Alba Alpín, Inés Bueso and Cecilia Huarte. The lineup reflects a blend of experience and fresh talent aimed at delivering a memorable performance.
The Spanish team is currently based at the Allon Mediterrania hotel in La Vila, facing the Centro beach, a hub for visiting rugby groups attracted by sports tourism. The El Pantano clash between Spain and Sweden is organized in collaboration with the Spanish Rugby Federation and enjoys the support of Villajoyosa City Council, the Generalitat Valenciana Ministry of Education, Culture and Esports, Alicante County Council, and the Costa Blanca Tourism Board. An entry donation of ten euros is requested, with free admission for those under sixteen.
Fans planning to attend should arrive early and join a growing community of supporters who view this final as a chance to celebrate women’s rugby and a region that embraces the sport with open arms. The event promises not only high-level rugby but also a showcase of teamwork, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence that has become a hallmark of Spanish women’s rugby on the European stage. The energy in La Vila will be undeniable as Las Leonas aim to etch their name deeper into the annals of the sport.