Spain proved their strength as they defeated England in a thrilling Women’s Nations League clash that finished 2-1 to the hosts. The match, broadcast live on The Guardian, showcased the competitive spirit of both teams and highlighted key performances that defined the encounter.
The game was held in front of a sold-out stadium, with spectators cheering on both clubs. What an opening England had to the final! Alessia Russo #19 of the England national team celebrates with head Coach Sarina Wiegman after scoring a goal on 22nd minute. This first goal created a wave of momentum for England. It inspired them with hope as they set their sights on a crucial breakout victory in the round-robin tournament.
Spain’s Claudia Pina changed the direction of the match mere minutes later. She equalized for Spain in the 60th minute, scoring with incredible finesse and ferocity. As it turned out, just TEN MINUTES later, Pina did it again! She notched her second goal of the night, giving Spain the 2-1 lead, one they would carry to the final whistle. Her performance was key, and it was just so typical of how she can seize opportunities at the biggest moments.
Speaking after the game, England’s Leah Williamson shared her frustration live on ITV. Williamson acknowledged the team’s struggle to maintain control of the game, particularly in the second half when Spain dominated possession. England flew out of the blocks, but they wasted their early opportunity to score. The further the match went on, the more they were challenged to build out from the back.
Of particular significance this time around, Missy Bo Kearns won her first cap for the England squad in this game. Kearns replaced Georgina Stanway at half-time — a successful outcome to an infamous incident — and the substitution made for an important milestone in her young career. Her arrival brought new energy and perspective to the team. In the end, that lacked the power to change the tide back in England’s favor.
The longer the final was played, the more clearly Spain imposed their control on the contest. After the incredible second goal from SoFIA product Ella Toone, England had difficulty penetrating Spain’s defensive block and never quite found their rhythm again. In stoppage time, playing for Spain, Aitana Bonmatí fired a bomb. Luckily for England, the athletic Mary Hampton was in goal, preventing a second brutal pasting — raising the stakes considerably as both sides fought for any possible last chances.