Spain triumph over Sweden to reach FIFA Women's World Cup final

Arriving with an unblemished record, having vanquished even the reigning champions USA in the Round of 16, Sweden appeared indomitable. This impression was further buoyed by their undefeated record in 11 prior encounters against the Spaniards.

The initial threat emanated from La Roja, with Olga Carmona's blazing shot narrowly missing the post, heralding a dynamic response that ushered in a period of dominance.

Sweden's formidable defensive line, having conceded only two goals before this match, was remarkably rattled by Spain's relentless advances, deviating from their customary composure. Employing a quick passing style of play from the back, the women under Jorge Vilda's stewardship clearly took the reins.

In the waning minutes of the first-half, Sweden's Stina Blackstenius saw her penalty area strike saved by Barcelona's Catalina Coll, elevating the tension in the brimming stadium as the second half loomed.

Amanda Ilestedt's colossal presence for the Swedes consistently thwarted impending danger.

In the tightly contested affair, Spain surged forth, with substitute Salma Paralluelo's brilliant work almost yielding an opener had Alba Redondo not inexplicably skewed her shot wide.

The introduction of the 19-year-old Paralluelo injected vigour into the Spanish offensive, culminating in an 81st-minute breakthrough that appeared to seal their victory. Paralluelo's electrifying strike nestled into the bottom corner, a fitting end to her outstanding substitute appearance.

Yet, Sweden, having encountered defeat in three of their last four semi-final encounters, exhibited resilience. Rebecka Blomqvist swiftly retaliated, rekindling hope with a timely strike.

As the match surged into its final moments, the tension escalated. Barely seconds after Sweden's 88th-minute equalizer, Carmona unleashed a ferocious shot that ignited a frenzy among the crowd. While Swedish goalkeeper Zecira Musovic extended her limbs in an attempt to thwart it, the ball eluded her grasp, finding the net.

Astonishing scenes unfolded for Spain, a team that had only debuted in the World Cup in 2015. This monumental victory placed them on the cusp of their maiden World Cup triumph.

Spain's next challenge awaits in the form of the winner between Australia and England, set to unfold on Wednesday, in what promises to be another exhilarating chapter in their remarkable journey.

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