Spain advanced to the quarter-finals of the Women’s World Cup for the first time, demonstrating a remarkable performance that ousted Switzerland in a match held in Auckland. Despite being defeated 4-0 by Japan in their final group match, La Roja roared back to life with a dazzling first-half performance that included four goals, in front of a New Zealand record crowd of 43,217 spectators.
Aitana Bonmati helped lead the Spanish offense, scoring the initial goal, and then later adding another to put Spain up 3-1. Switzerland’s only response came when Laia Codina accidentally knocked a back pass past her own goalkeeper from inside her own half. Spain quickly regained control through a goal from Alba Redondo and another from Codina, who redeemed herself. Jennifer Hermoso capped off the victory with a clinical finish after half-time.
Coach Jorge Vilda made significant changes after the loss to Japan, including debuting goalkeeper Cata Coll. Despite Codina’s misstep, the team delivered an impressive performance, erasing doubts that arose from disagreements within the squad before the tournament. Spain’s 70% possession against Switzerland marked the highest rate in a knockout game at the last four editions of the Women’s World Cup.
Switzerland, who had reached the knockout stage despite limited success in scoring, found themselves overwhelmed by Spain’s offense and were limited to just one attempt on target. The loss marked Switzerland’s heaviest defeat in the Fifa Women’s World Cup, equalling the number of goals they had conceded in all their previous seven games at the tournament. After topping their group, the Swiss team’s World Cup run ended in disappointment, with players looking disheartened as they thanked fans post-match.
The player of the match award went to Salma Paralluelo, with an average rating of 5.23. Spain will now prepare to face the winners of the game between the Netherlands and South Africa in Wellington next Friday for their quarter-final match.
Match statistics also revealed Spain’s dominance, with the away team controlling 70% possession and registering 26 shots compared to Switzerland’s 2. Spain also outdid Switzerland in corners 11 to 0 and fouls 15 to 6. The resounding victory reinforces Spain’s determination and prowess as they continue their campaign in the Women’s World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword Spain
Who scored twice for Spain in the match against Switzerland in the Women’s World Cup?
Aitana Bonmati scored two goals in Spain’s 5-1 victory over Switzerland, helping the team advance to the quarter-finals.
What was significant about the crowd for this match in New Zealand?
The crowd of 43,217 was a record for a football match in New Zealand, reflecting the high interest in this Women’s World Cup game.
How did Switzerland’s Laia Codina contribute to both teams’ scores?
Laia Codina accidentally scored an own goal by hitting a back pass into her net from inside her own half. Later, she redeemed herself by scoring Spain’s fourth goal.
Who will Spain play in the quarter-finals?
Spain will play the winners of the match between the Netherlands and South Africa in the quarter-finals in Wellington.
What was the possession percentage for Spain in this match?
Spain enjoyed 70% possession against Switzerland, the highest possession rate of any team in a knockout game at the last four editions of the Women’s World Cup.
Was this Spain’s first time reaching the quarter-finals in the Women’s World Cup?
Yes, this marked Spain’s first time reaching the quarter-finals of the Women’s World Cup.
Who was named the player of the match?
Salma Paralluelo was named the player of the match, with an average rating of 5.23.
More about fokus keyword Spain
- FIFA Women’s World Cup Official Site
- Spain’s National Women’s Football Team
- Switzerland Women’s National Football Team
- Women’s World Cup Match Highlights and Statistics
6 comments
Wow, Spain’s really on fire this tournament! 5-1 is no small feat. Bonmati is amazing, hope they make it all the way!!!
didnt watch the full match but the highlights were thrilling, Spain seems to be playing in harmony after all the internal conflicts. Impressive!
can’t believe we’re in the quarter-finals for the first time! Vilda’s changes worked, and Cata Coll’s debut was solid. Go Spain!
really dissapointed with Switzerland’s performance. That own goal by Codina was a heartbreaker, but at least she made up for it later…
The possession stats tell the story, 70% is massive, Swiss never had a chance. Spain’s midfield controled the game and that’s the key in modern football.
Salma Paralluelo player of the match? Surprised, though everyone played well. What a game to watch, cant wait for the quarterfinals!