A moment of sheer brilliance illuminated the realm of women’s football as Spain clinched their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup championship.
The stunning finale unfolded in Sydney on August 20, where Spain triumphed over England in a sensational showdown that will forever be etched in history.
The defining instant arrived in the 29th minute, when Olga Carmona’s extraordinary goal ignited the stage, propelling Spain to a thrilling 1-0 victory and cementing their position at the zenith of women’s football.
This iconic goal marked a turning point in the match, propelling Spain to the elite group of nations that have claimed both the men’s and women’s World Cup titles—a feat previously achieved only by Germany.
Spain’s men’s national team secured their triumph in the 2010 World Cup, and now, the women’s team has inscribed their name on the coveted trophy.
The spotlight radiated on Spain’s emerging talents, with Aitana Bonmati and Salma Paralluelo emerging as the standout stars of the tournament.
Bonmati’s captivating performances on the field earned her the esteemed Golden Ball accolade, while the young sensation Paralluelo was hailed as the Best Young Player.
England’s Mary Earps showcased her goalkeeping prowess, earning her the prestigious Golden Glove award, while Japan’s Hinata Miyazawa clinched the Golden Boot with a tournament-leading five goals.
Spain masterfully demonstrated their tactical prowess by substituting Alexia Putellas with the dynamic Salma Paralluelo, constructing a formidable 4-3-3 formation.
On the other side, England, despite the return of Lauren James following suspension, chose to retain their unaltered starting lineup that had propelled them to the grand finale.
Drawing inspiration from their recent encounter in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 quarterfinals, where England emerged triumphant in extra time, both teams engaged in an intense contest for supremacy.
The match burst into action with a flurry of plays, offering numerous goal-scoring opportunities. In the 16th minute, England’s Lauren Hemp came tantalizingly close to finding the net, narrowly striking the crossbar.
Spain responded swiftly, with Paralluelo’s near-miss from a Carmona cross setting the stage for Alba Redondo’s powerful attempt, thwarted by the agile Mary Earps. The game’s pivotal moment arrived in the 29th minute as Spain seized midfield control.
Teresa Abelleira orchestrated a sweeping play to the left, with Mariona Caldentey delivering an impeccable setup for Olga Carmona. With impeccable timing, Carmona unleashed a rocket of a shot that soared beyond Earps, setting off jubilant celebrations among Spanish fans.
As halftime loomed, Spain narrowly missed an opportunity to extend their lead when Paralluelo’s effort kissed the post. The second half bore witness to an intensified English assault with the introduction of Lauren James and Chloe Kelly.
Nonetheless, Spain continued to fashion clear-cut chances, with Caldentey forcing a spectacular save from Earps and Bonmati narrowly missing the mark. In the 64th minute, a VAR review led to Spain being awarded a penalty after the ball struck Keira Walsh’s hand.
Jennifer Hermoso stepped up, but Mary Earps exhibited exceptional reflexes, thwarting the Spanish striker’s attempt and keeping England’s hopes alive. England’s pursuit of an equalizer saw Lauren James test Spain’s goalkeeper Cata Coll in the 76th minute, only to be met with a resolute defense.
Despite mounting pressure, Spain remained menacing until the final moments, with Earps showcasing heroics to deny Ona Batlle’s deflected strike. In a final attempt to salvage the game, Earps joined the English attack for a stoppage-time corner, but time ran out on their aspirations.
This triumphant victory marks Spain’s third appearance on the Women’s World Cup stage. Their prior campaigns concluded with a round of 16 exit and a group stage elimination. This remarkable journey to the championship encapsulates the spirit of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence that defines the world of women’s football.
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