“Don’t abandon hope. The loss is painful, the players are upset, and I am certain they will bounce back stronger in the following match,” expressed Jorge Vilda.
The Spanish coach had just watched his team succumb to Japan in Wellington, and the Spanish press was seeking reassurances after La Roja’s most crushing defeat in Women’s World Cup history.
Their response arrived five days later with an impressive 5-1 triumph over Switzerland in Auckland.
This victory not only secured Spain’s first-ever quarter-final berth but also demonstrated that the sixth-ranked team in the world had regained the form that establishes them as formidable contenders in this World Cup.
“I believe this is a significant psychological milestone for Spain,” said former England captain Steph Houghton on BBC One.
“We’ve been observing and competing against this Spanish team for years, and we had high expectations for them. Making it to the quarter-finals will immensely boost their confidence.”
Vilda stated: “We’ve demonstrated our capabilities even without our optimal performance.
“So, ultimately we have succeeded, we have pressed well, and we have made history. Today, our actions speak louder than words, and honestly, we are delighted.”
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‘Spain possesses 23 Ballons d’Or’
Vilda made his authority felt on Saturday, indicating that he is not hesitant to take bold decisions when necessary.
There was collective surprise from the Spanish press corps when the team sheet revealed that primary goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez had been substituted by 22-year-old Cata Coll.
Two-time Ballon d’Or winner, Alexia Putellas, also found herself on the bench after starting in the match against Japan.
“Today, we demonstrated that Spain’s team is made up of 23 players,” declared Vilda, who has now given 18 different players a start in four games in New Zealand. “We have 23 Ballons d’Or.”
Four players earned their first starts at this World Cup against Switzerland – including Laia Codina, who after scoring an unfortunate own goal, redeemed herself by netting Spain’s fourth goal right before half-time.
Forward Alba Redondo, in her World Cup debut, scored and assisted a goal.
However, the standout performance came from Aitana Bonmati, the Barcelona midfielder, who ended the game with two goals and two assists.
Now with three goals in the tournament, her significant contribution has pushed Spain closer to a semi-final spot.
“Spain required their key players to step up today, and she has certainly done that,” Houghton added.
Bonmati credited the intense disappointment from the heavy loss to Japan for sparking the team’s resounding victory over Switzerland.
“Playing today wasn’t easy considering our recent setback,” Bonmati reflected on the team’s fluctuating fortunes.
“I am not accustomed to such losses.
“This experience will bind us tighter than ever. In challenging times, my character comes to the fore even more.
“And this is when the team’s and the players’ true character is revealed. I hope we’ll continue on this journey for many more days.”
Spain have secured three wins out of four games at the 2023 Women’s World Cup
‘The Familiar Spanish Side’
Spain is set to take on either the Netherlands or South Africa in the quarter-finals back in Wellington on Friday, following their offensive masterclass against the Swiss.
They’ve managed to net 13 goals from 104 attempts in four matches, with 37 hitting the mark.
Spain controlled the game with 70% possession against Switzerland, the highest rate seen in a knockout game at the last four Women’s World Cups.
“This is the Spanish side we recognize – the team that enjoys controlling the game, circulating the ball, and working collaboratively,” former France defender Laura Georges commented on BBC One.
“The key distinction between Spain’s performance against Switzerland and their outing against Japan was their precision with the ball, accuracy, and their clinical finishing. That made all the difference.”
Ex-England defender Gilly Flaherty declared that Spain had broadcasted a strong message to their adversaries.
“Regardless of their performance in the initial two group matches, the conversation centred around the loss to Japan and its manner,” she said.
“They needed to make a statement.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about 2023 Women’s World Cup Spain Victory
Who is the coach of the Spanish women’s football team at the 2023 Women’s World Cup?
The coach of the Spanish women’s football team at the 2023 Women’s World Cup is Jorge Vilda.
What was the result of Spain’s match against Switzerland in the 2023 Women’s World Cup?
Spain had an impressive 5-1 victory over Switzerland in the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Who was the standout player in Spain’s match against Switzerland?
The standout player in Spain’s match against Switzerland was Aitana Bonmati. She finished the game with two goals and two assists.
What significance does the win over Switzerland hold for the Spanish women’s football team?
The win over Switzerland secured Spain’s first-ever quarter-final berth in the Women’s World Cup and helped reestablish their position as serious contenders in the tournament.
How many games has Spain won at the 2023 Women’s World Cup?
As of the time of the article, Spain has won three of their four games at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Who replaced the primary goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez in Spain’s match against Switzerland?
The primary goalkeeper, Misa Rodriguez, was replaced by 22-year-old Cata Coll in Spain’s match against Switzerland.
Who will Spain face in the quarter-finals of the 2023 Women’s World Cup?
Spain will face either the Netherlands or South Africa in the quarter-finals of the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
More about 2023 Women’s World Cup Spain Victory
- Spain’s Performance in 2023 Women’s World Cup
- Spain’s Victory over Switzerland Detailed Report
- Coach Jorge Vilda’s Statement Post Switzerland Match
- Aitana Bonmati: Spain’s Standout Player
- Details on Spain’s Lineup Changes
- Spain’s Journey to the Quarter-finals
- 2023 Women’s World Cup Latest News
- 2023 Women’s World Cup Teams and Rankings
6 comments
its not how you start, its how you finish! Spain’s shown that! Fingers crossed for the semis!
What a game! Spain is really stepping it up in this world cup. bonmati was on fire! can’t wait to see them in the quarters!
After that defeat by Japan, this comeback’s impressive. Spain’s sent a powerful message to the rest. It’s game on.
My girl Aitana shining on the big stage. Never had a doubt!
Cata Coll stepping in for Misa was a brave call. Shows Vilda’s got guts. Respect!
we showed ’em what we got! This was the Spain we all know n love. Let’s bring that same energy to the quarter-finals, Vamos España!!!