The Spanish revolution reached its zenith on a frosty winter evening, occurring exactly at 10:02 p.m. in Sydney on a Sunday. It culminated in a dynamic sprint followed by a splendid goal, the sole point scored during the 2023 Women’s World Cup final. This outcome was most appropriate as Spain, amidst a rapid evolution of women’s soccer within its borders, clinched its inaugural championship.
The 29th-minute goal by Olga Carmona proved sufficient for Spain to secure its first-ever World Cup title. In achieving this honor, Spain now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the ranks of World Cup champions such as the United States, Germany, Norway, and Japan. Additionally, it marks a triumphant trio of victories for La Roja, which had previously conquered the Under-20 and U-18 World Cups in the preceding year.
The victory is likely to be interpreted as a validation for Jorge Vilda. He had sidelined all but three players who had protested against the team environment he had established in the previous year. However, it was the remarkable skill of the players, not Vilda’s strategic maneuvers, that propelled them to clinch this World Cup triumph.
Spain dismantled England’s left flank, prompting a cascade of turnovers. One of these turnovers led to Carmona’s decisive goal. Seizing possession from Lucy Bronze at midfield, Spain lofted the ball to the left side of the field, where Mariona Caldentey assumed control. Carrying the ball upfield, Caldentey then deftly passed it to Carmona, who outmaneuvered goalkeeper Mary Earps and found the net in the distant corner.
England did have opportunities, and Earps’ successful denial of a Jenni Hermosa penalty kick appeared to invigorate the European champions. Nonetheless, they faltered in converting these opportunities, and ultimately found themselves unable to match the pace set by the newly crowned World Cup champions.
(Source: Alasdair Pal | Reuters)
