Spain makes history by reaching first Women’s World Cup final

 

   Spain has achieved a historic feat by advancing to its first ever Women’s World Cup final after a thrilling 2-1 win over Sweden in extra time. The match, which took place at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand, on August 15, was a nail-biting affair that saw both teams fight for every inch of the pitch.

    Sweden, who had eliminated the US and Japan in the previous rounds, started the match with confidence and created some early chances. Caroline Graham Hansen, who had scored four goals in the tournament so far, tested Spanish goalkeeper Cata Coll with a low shot in the 10th minute. However, Coll was up to the task and made a fine save.

     Spain, who had impressed with their attacking style of play and scored 15 goals in their four matches, gradually grew into the game and threatened with their quick passing and movement. Jennifer Hermoso, who had also scored four goals, had a good opportunity in the 25th minute after a clever through ball by Alexia Putellas, but her shot was blocked by Swedish defender Amanda Ilestedt.

     The first half ended goalless, but the second half saw more action and drama. In the 52nd minute, Spain took the lead after a brilliant solo run by Salma Paralluelo. The 19-year-old winger dribbled past two defenders and cut inside from the right flank before unleashing a powerful shot that beat Swedish goalkeeper Zećira Mušović at the near post.

    Sweden did not give up and pushed for an equalizer. In the 68th minute, they were rewarded after a penalty was awarded for a handball by Spanish defender Olga Carmona. Ilestedt stepped up to take the spot-kick and calmly converted it to level the score.

    The match went into extra time, and both teams looked tired but determined to find the winner. In the 103rd minute, Spain had a golden chance after Hermoso was fouled by Fridolina Rolfö in the box. Hermoso took the penalty herself, but Mušović guessed right and made a superb save to keep Sweden in the game.

    However, just two minutes later, Spain scored the decisive goal after another brilliant run by Paralluelo. The young starlet received a pass from Putellas and sprinted past Ilestedt before slotting home a low shot that went under Mušović’s legs.

     Spain held on to their lead until the final whistle and celebrated their historic achievement. La Roja will now face the winner of the other semifinal between England and Australia, which will be played on Wednesday night at Stadium Australia in Sydney.

     You can watch the highlights of the match [here]. You can also read more about how Spain reached its first Women’s World Cup final [here].