Spain booked their spot in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 semi-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 triumph over 2019 finalists Netherlands in Wellington on Friday (11 August). This historic victory marks the first time in the nation’s history that they’ve advanced to the final four of a FIFA Women’s World Cup. The match remained scoreless until the 81st minute when Spain earned a penalty, taken with precision by Mariona Caldentey.
Initially, it seemed that this solitary goal would be enough to secure Spain’s semi-final berth, but in stoppage time, Stefanie van der Gragt found the net, extending the contest to extra time. The initial half of extra time unfolded without much action, and it wasn’t until the 111th minute that Spain‘s Salma Paralluelo unleashed a decisive shot, propelling her nation into the tournament’s coveted final four.
The Forthcoming Challenge
In their forthcoming challenge, Spain will face either Japan or Sweden as they strive for their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup final appearance. Despite their commanding possession and a total of 28 chances, it took until the second half of extra time for Spain to seal their fate.
Salma Paralluelo, a 19-year-old who entered the game in the 70th minute, etched her name into history with the match-winning strike that propelled Spain into their inaugural Women’s World Cup semi-finals. Over the previous 110 minutes, Spain had maintained dominance, yet the Round of 16 matches involving the USWNT and Nigeria had demonstrated that being in control doesn’t necessarily ensure victory.
Nonetheless, this time it proved otherwise. Even when Stefanie van der Gragt provided Netherlands a glimmer of hope in the opening moments of added time, Spain’s spirit remained unbroken. They regrouped with unwavering confidence as they entered extra time, steadfast in their belief that victory remained well within their grasp.
The triumph was richly deserved for Spain, as Netherlands failed to match the quality and composure exhibited by La Roja.