Spain secure historic win over Switzerland at Women's World Cup

By SABC Sport
5th August 2023

Spain achieved their first-ever knockout game win at the Women's World Cup by overpowering Switzerland with a dominant 5-1 scoreline.

The exciting encounter, witnessed by a record-breaking crowd of 43,217 at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand, showcased Spain's determination to clinch their maiden WWC trophy.

Right from the kick-off, Spain displayed their prowess as Aitana Bonmati calmly converted in the fifth minute, slotting the ball past Gaelle Thalmann after the Swiss goalkeeper had made a stunning save from point-blank range. In an unusual twist, the Swiss levelled the score in the 11th minute when Laia Codina inadvertently directed the ball into her own net from near the halfway line.

Spain, however, quickly regained their lead, with Alba Redondo heading home a precise cross a little over five minutes later. The first-half continued to belong entirely to the Spanish side, as BonmatÃ completed her brace in the 36th minute and Codina redeemed herself with a goal, capitalizing on a goalmouth scramble, resulting in a commanding three-goal advantage for Spain at half-time.

Attempting to turn the tide, Switzerland made three substitutions in midfield during the break. However, despite the changes, Spain remained in control, maintaining a firm grip on possession and continuously sending dangerous crosses into the Swiss penalty area. It wasn't until the hour mark that Swiss player Meriame Terchoun finally tested the Spanish goalkeeper, Cata Coll, but her shot was brilliantly saved.

Despite a brief resurgence from Switzerland, Spain crushed any hope of a comeback by netting their fifth goal in the 70th minute, courtesy of Jennifer Hermoso. Taking advantage of a poor clearance, Hermoso clinically found the back of the net, extending Spain's lead to an insurmountable 5-1, sealing the victory in the final minutes of the match.

With this stunning performance, Spain firmly established themselves as serious title contenders, setting their sights on a place in the semi-finals. Their next challenge in the quarter-finals will be against the winner of the Netherlands vs. South Africa match, following a comfortable Round of 16 triumph.

As for Switzerland, while progressing from the group stage was commendable, they were simply outmatched by a Spain side that exhibited superior skill and composure throughout the game.