Esneca Fraga became European champions for the second time in their history on Sunday, defeating Benfica 4-1 in the Women’s Roller Hockey Champions League final held in Coimbra. The Spanish side showcased their clinical finishing to make the difference in the decisive match.
The Aragonese team, which had eliminated tournament favorites Vila-sana Coop d’Ivars in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time during the semifinals, repeated the continental success they first achieved in 2024.
Benfica posed a major threat to end Spanish dominance in European roller hockey, which has lasted for a decade. Under that pressure, Fraga started the match with high intensity, translating it into a strong first half. A double from Argentine player Adriana Soto put them firmly in control.
After the break, Benfica pushed forward but lacked accuracy in crucial moments. A blue card for goalkeeper Anna Ferrer gave the Portuguese side a golden opportunity, but a direct free kick taken by Spain’s Aimee Blackman went unconverted, and a penalty from Raquel Santos also failed to find the net.
Despite this, Benfica kept fighting and found a reward during a power play through Spain’s Sara Roces (2-1, 37th minute), sparking their best spell in which they came close to equalizing but without luck.
Fraga, drawing on their experience, absorbed the pressure and struck back at the right moment. Carla Fontdegloria capitalized on a defensive lapse to extend the lead (3-1, 42nd minute) and effectively kill off Benfica’s comeback hopes. With the Portuguese side throwing everything forward and taking risks, María Sanjurjo sealed the final with a decisive 4-1 goal.
