Spain Overcomes Swiss Resilience too Reach Semi-Finals
Spain has secured a spot in the semi-finals after a hard-fought victory against Switzerland. Despite a strong defensive effort from the Swiss, SpainS attacking prowess ultimately prevailed, with two second-half goals sealing their progression.
The match began with an early scare for Switzerland when Mariona Caldentey of Arsenal was awarded a penalty in the eighth minute. Though, her spot-kick sailed wide of the post, offering a crucial reprieve for the Swiss.Lia Wälti was a standout performer for switzerland, demonstrating remarkable versatility by seamlessly transitioning between midfield and defense, tirelessly disrupting Spain’s rhythm. Reaching halftime with the scoreline goalless was a testament to their remarkable defensive organization, with Irene Paredes’ header striking the outside of the post just before the break being the closest the favored Spanish side came to scoring.
The passionate home crowd, a sea of red, provided a vociferous backdrop, with every action from the Swiss players, from clearances to tackles, met with deafening roars. This fervent support seemed to fuel the Swiss and add to the mounting frustration of the Spanish. Nevertheless, Spain remained patient, probing the Swiss defense, and eventually found a way through. Aitana Bonmatí, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, was instrumental in breaking the deadlock, creating a moment of magic to set up Del Castillo. The second goal was equally extraordinary, with Pina capitalizing on a moment of hesitation from Wälti, who believed she had been fouled, and firing a stunning shot into the top corner from 20 yards.
Late drama unfolded as Spain’s goalkeeper saved a shot from Putellas after Beney conceded a penalty for a challenge on Del Castillo. Noelle Maritz received a red card in injury time, but these late events had no bearing on the final outcome.
Spain now advances to face the winner of the quarter-final between Germany and France. “We accomplished our goal and now we have to keep improving,” stated Spain’s coach,Tomé. For Switzerland, this tournament marks the beginning of an exciting future, with coach Sundhage reflecting, “Football is critically important for society and women’s football is important for society. Women’s football has changed Switzerland a little bit.”
