- Extratime Team
- Sun, Aug 20 2023
Spain clinched their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup title with a 1-0 win over England, marking a significant milestone in their footballing history.
The match began with both teams showing intent and purpose.
England's first notable effort came 15 minutes into the game when Lauren Hemp's powerful left-footed shot struck the crossbar.
Spain, however, consistently posed threats, particularly from wide areas.
Mary Earps, England's goalkeeper, was instrumental in keeping her side in contention during the initial stages.
Her reflexive save against Teresa Abelleira's effort from a Salma Paralluelo cross was a testament to her form.
The pivotal moment arrived in the 29th minute.
After dispossessing England's Lucy Bronze, Spain swiftly transitioned into an attacking move.
Mariona Caldentey's precise pass found Captain Olga Carmona, who confidently slotted the ball into the net, marking the only goal of the match.
In an effort to change the game's dynamics, England introduced Lauren James and Chloe Kelly at the beginning of the second half.
The drama intensified when England's Keira Walsh was penalized for a handball following a VAR review.
Up stepped Jenni Hermoso, aiming to put the game to bed. But Earps, embodying England's resilient spirit, guessed right to deny the penalty and keep her side in contention.
England, the European champions, struggled to create meaningful opportunities and were kept at bay by a resolute Spanish defense.
As the final whistle blew, the celebrations began for Jorge Vilda's squad, having clinched a thoroughly deserved championship..
This victory sees Spain achieve a notable feat, having previously won the FIFA U-17 and U-20 Women’s World Cup titles.
Salma Paralluelo, having been a part of all three title-winning campaigns, cements her position in football history.
Spain Women: Cata Coll; Ona Batlle, Olga Carmona, Laia Codina (Ivana Andres 73), Irene Paredes; Teresa Abelleira, Aitana Bonmati, Jennifer Hermoso; Mariona, Salma Paralluelo, Alba Redondo (Oihane Hernandez 60).
Subs not used: Misa, Enith Salon, Rocio Galvez, Claudia Zornoza, Irene Guerrero, Maria Perez, Alexia Putellas, Eva Navarro, Esther González, Athenea Del Castillo.
Booked: Salma Paralluelo (78).
England Women: Mary Earps; Millie Bright, Jessica Carter, Alex Greenwood; Lucia Bronze, Rachel Daly (Chloe Kelly 46), Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone (Bethany England 87), Keira Walsh; Lauren Hemp, Alessia Russo (Lauren James 46).
Subs not used: Ellie Roebuck, Hannah Hampton, Lotte Wubben-Moy, Niamh Charles, Katie Zelem, Laura Coombs, Esme Morgan, Jordan Nobbs, Katie Robinson.
Booked: Lauren Hemp (55).
Referee: Tori Penso
Attendance: 75,784
extratime.com Player of the Match: Olga Carmona
