Spain vs England: What a thrilling conclusion! The final whistle certifies Spain as world champions! The difference was Olga Carmona’s goal, and they were the better team on the day. England gave it their all but fell short against a superior opponent. It’s not often that Wiegman gets outplayed tactically, but Vilda triumphs at Stadium Australia. Spain now holds the U-17, U-20, and Senior World Cups.
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It was an interesting final that appeared to be evenly matched from the start, with both teams looking to attack one another. They intended to take advantage of the spaces behind the rival backlines. Lauren Hemp’s shot off the crossbar was England’s finest chance of the half.
Redondo almost scored for Spain shortly later. They would not be denied in the 29th minute, when wandering left back Carmona attacked the space on a quick counter attack. Lucy Bronze took over, and her first time finish fizzed past Earps and into the bottom corner.
Following the goal, England lost control of the game. At halftime, Sarina Wiegman switched to a back four. She brought back Lauren James off the bench in an attempt to get the Lionesses going.
However, Spain would have the next major chance when Keira Walsh was deemed to have handled in the box. Hermoso took the pitch, but couldn’t convert because Earps saved her penalty.
England fought for a winner but struggled to produce significant chances. A tenacious Spain team tormented them and even created chances in stoppage time. They were able to slow down the game sufficiently to stop the clock and make history.
Spain vs England Starting XI:
Spain XI:
Coll, Battle, Parades, Codina, Carmona, Bonmati, Abelleira, Hermoso, Caldentey, Paralluelo Redondo.
England XI:
Earps, Bronze, Bright, Greenwood, Carter, Daly, Walsh, Stanway, Toone, Hemp, Russo.
Subs: Roebuck, Hampton, Charles, Wubben-Moy, Morgan, Zelem, Nobbs, Coombs, Robinson, Kelly, England, James.
