Spain 5-0 Zambia: Spain progress to Round of 16 as they knock Zambia out
Spain continued to showcase their class and potential to go all the way in the Fifa 2023 Women’s World Cup as they thrashed Zambia, securing a spot in the last 16 with a match to spare.
After their convincing 3-0 triumph over Costa Rica in their Group C opener, where they impressively attempted 46 shots on goal, the Spanish team continued their dominant form against Zambia.
Teresa Abelleira set the tone with a remarkable long-range strike, putting Spain in the lead just nine minutes into the match.
Jenni Hermoso added to the scoreline only four minutes later, celebrating her 100th international appearance by heading in a well-placed cross.
In the second half, Alba Redondo skillfully beat the goalkeeper, further extending Spain’s lead. Later, Hermoso notched her 50th international goal, albeit after a lengthy video assistant referee review.
Hermoso came close to completing a hat trick, but her shot hit the crossbar. Nevertheless, Spain managed to secure their fifth goal as Redondo struck home in the final minutes of the game.
This victory also ensured Japan’s progress, as they defeated Costa Rica 2-0 on the same day. Both teams will now face each other in a battle for first place on Monday, 31 July, at 08:00 BST.
2023 World Cup: Spain showing they are real threat
In Spain’s opener against Costa Rica, the two-time Ballon d’Or winner, Alexia Putellas, was named on the bench due to her recovery from a long-term injury. However, she made a triumphant return to the starting lineup in the match against Women’s World Cup debutants, Zambia.
Despite her time off, the Barcelona midfielder showed no signs of rustiness and immediately made her presence felt on the field. In fact, it was her skilful cross that set up Spain’s second goal, finding Hermoso at the far post.
With the early goals, it seemed like Spain would achieve a significant victory. However, Zambia, facing elimination with a defeat, put up a strong defence and managed to hold off Spain’s attacks until 20 minutes before the final whistle.
As the game progressed, Zambia’s fatigue became evident, and Spain’s superior quality began to show. The Spanish team went on to score three more goals, accurately reflecting their overall dominance.
Notably, this win marked their second clean sheet of the tournament and their 13th victory in the last 15 matches since their loss to England in the Euro 2022 quarter-finals. This impressive performance will undoubtedly catch the attention of their rivals in the competition.
Spain have sent out a message to other top contenders – including the US, Germany, England and Japan – this World Cup really will be the tightest competition in its history.
