Spain are through to their first-ever Women’s World Cup after securing a late 2-1 semi-final win over Sweden in Auckland on Tuesday.
La Roja made it into their first-ever semi-final after defeating the Netherlands 2-1 in the quarter-finals. Reaching the last eight was equally an achievement as they had never gone past the round of 16 but managed to do so by thumping Switzerland 5-1. The Blue and Yellows meanwhile were making their fourth semi-final appearance after defeating favourites 2-1.
The first half of the semi-final was a cagey affair though Spain expectedly had the bulk share of goal possession and also goal attempts but none on target.
The floodgates finally opened at Eden Park in the 81st minute when substitute and teenage sensation Salma Paralluelo struck with a half-volley. Spain’s lead did not last long as Sweden equalised seven minutes later with Lina Hurtig nodding the ball to an unmarked Rebecka Blomqvist to volley it in.
Jorge Vilda’s ladies responded instantly with Teresa Abelleira’s pass from her corner kick finding captain Olga Carmona who drilled a powerful shot from outside of the box that made its way into the top right corner of the net.
???????? @SEFutbolFem are into their first #FIFAWWC Final!!! ????
— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) August 15, 2023
Spain will get to face the winner of Wednesday’s semi-final between England and World Cup co-hosts Australia in the final on Sunday while Sweden will contest the third/fourth place playoff in Brisbane on Saturday.
