Football holds a special place in Spain’s sporting culture, boasting a passionate following and a rich history. While the men’s team has achieved notable success, the women’s team has been working diligently to carve out their own path and inspire a new generation of footballers.
In recent years, women’s football in Spain has experienced significant growth, with top-tier clubs investing heavily in their teams. Spanish clubs have enjoyed success in European competitions, particularly Barcelona, who have reached the UEFA Women’s Champions League final four times in the last five years, winning the coveted title twice. This surge in growth has established Spain as one of the favourites to win the upcoming Women’s World Cup.
Despite their clubs’ impressive domestic achievements, Spain has never won the Women’s World Cup, and this year marks only their third appearance in the prestigious tournament. However, the team has gained recognition due to the presence of some of the biggest names in football. Winning the World Cup would be an important milestone for a squad that has never advanced past the knockout stage in its history.
Spain has been placed in Group C alongside Costa Rica, Japan, and Zambia. Although none of these teams should be underestimated, Zambia’s recent form has caught the attention of many. Nevertheless, Spain is widely expected to emerge from the group and progress to the knockout rounds.
FIFA World Ranking – 6
The Provisional Squad
On June 12th, Jorge Vilda, the coach of the Spanish women’s team, announced the highly anticipated 30-player provisional squad, sparking numerous discussions among fans. While there was considerable debate about the inclusion of Maitane Lopez in the squad, the main focus was on the players who returned from ‘Las 15’ and those who remained steadfast in their decision to not represent the national team.
🗒️ 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗺𝗼𝘀 las 𝟯𝟬 𝗳𝘂𝘁𝗯𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘀 que forman parte de la lista de preparación para el @FIFAWWC.
🙌 España trabajará en Benidorm, Madrid y Asturias antes de viajar a Dinamarca.
🗓️ El próximo día 30 de junio, la lista definitiva.
🔗 https://t.co/8Ief31RDDr… pic.twitter.com/V4sdC88GS2
— Selección Española Femenina de Fútbol (@SEFutbolFem) June 12, 2023
Mapi Leon, Patri Guijarro, Claudia Pina, Lola Gallardo, Nerea Eizagirre, Amaiur Sarriegi, and Ainhoa Moraza had previously decided not to return to the national team, deeming the changes made insufficient. Their choice to abstain from participating in the World Cup showcased their courage and conviction in sticking to their original decision.
In contrast, several players made themselves available for selection, including Mariona Caldentey, Ona Batlle, and Aitana Bonmati, who were ultimately called up by Vilda. Notably, two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, who had been sidelined due to injury for the past year, returned to the squad.
The provisional squad also featured players who had recently recovered from injuries, such as Cata Coll and Jana Fernandez, as well as some unexpected additions like Maria Perez. The inclusion of these players stirred chaotic debates among supporters, reflecting the diverse opinions surrounding Vilda’s choices.
The Final Squad
If the provisional squad generated chaotic discussions, the final squad list bewildered supporters even further. With Shei Garcia ruled out due to injury, Vilda omitted Marta Cardona, Maite Oroz, Fiamma Benítez, Jana Fernandez, Elene Lete, and Inma Gabarro from the final squad. The exclusion of Marta Cardona, Maite Oroz, and Jana Fernandez came as a shock, particularly considering Cardona’s experience and unique skill set that could have contributed significantly to the team.
🫶🏼 ¡𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗦 𝗦𝗢𝗡 𝗟𝗔𝗦 𝟮𝟯 𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗦!
✨ La ilusión de todas las generaciones ✨#JugarLucharYGanar I #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/sZhg9ujUzQ
— Selección Española Femenina de Fútbol (@SEFutbolFem) June 30, 2023
During the press conference, Vilda’s statements regarding the inclusion of Maria Perez, a relatively inexperienced player from Barcelona’s B squad, raised eyebrows. Instead of comparing her to a more suitable player like Patri Guijarro, he evoked the name of Sergio Busquets. This decision-making process by Vilda, especially in light of several top players opting not to participate, left many perplexed.
As a result of his own actions, Vilda ended up with an imbalanced squad in some positions, yet it remains the most balanced squad he has assembled thus far.
The Coach and His Track Record
Jorge Vilda’s tenure as the coach of the Spanish women’s team has been marked by mixed results. Since taking over in 2015, the team has failed to win a knockout match, despite victories in friendlies against weakened opponents like the United States and other European nations. Spain’s disappointing loss to England in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Women’s Euros, characterized by a tactical mishap in the dying minutes of the second half leading to a disastrous extra time, showcased the team’s limitations on the international stage. To achieve significant success, Spain still has a long way to go, even with their best players on the roster.
Hopefully, Vilda has made the necessary adjustments to his tactics this time around, ensuring a more cohesive and effective approach that maximizes the players’ abilities and avoids leaving them to fend for themselves on the pitch. The coach’s focus should be on empowering the team rather than making everything about himself.
Expectations
Spain finds itself in Group C alongside Costa Rica, Japan, and Zambia. While on paper, all three teams appear beatable, the reality on the field could be quite different. Zambia, often overlooked, has shown excellent form, defeating Germany 3-2 in a friendly match leading up to the World Cup. Japan, though not as strong as they have been historically, still poses a threat. Costa Rica considered the dark horse of the group, could provide a challenging test for Spain. Ultimately, Spain is expected to progress from the group stage and potentially reach the Round of 16. However, the true challenge lies in the knockout stages, where Spain’s status as tournament favourites will be put to the test. Advancing beyond the quarterfinals would be an achievement for Vilda and the team, a milestone worth celebrating.
Players to Watch
The Spanish squad boasts several exceptional players, making it difficult to highlight just a few. Nevertheless, there are three players who are expected to have a significant impact:
Aitana Bonmati
Bonmati is a key player, particularly in the midfield. As a creative midfielder, she possesses the ability to score goals and create opportunities for her teammates. Recently named the UWCL Player of the Season, Bonmati has enjoyed a fantastic domestic campaign, stepping up for her club in the absence of their captain, Alexia Putellas. Her energy and contributions will undoubtedly be on display at the World Cup.
Ona Batlle
Emerging as one of the world’s top fullbacks, Batlle is a player to watch in the Spanish squad. Her ball control and ability to push the ball forward, clearing the lines, make her a dangerous addition to the team. Batlle has consistently performed at her best for Manchester United throughout the season and will bring that experience to the World Cup. Her combination play with Aitana Bonmati on the right flank will be a potent and exciting attacking threat.
Salma Paralluelo
After missing out on the Euros last year due to injury, Paralluelo chose to pursue football over athletics and signed with Barcelona. Her pace up front will be a valuable asset for Spain. Under the guidance of coach Jonatan Giraldez at Barcelona, Paralluelo has developed into a promising talent, capable of scoring stunning goals. Keep an eye on her during the tournament.
Conclusion
The Spanish squad boasts some of the most technically gifted players in the world. While they possess the potential to win the Women’s World Cup, they have struggled to translate their technical superiority into major tournament success in the past. Hopefully, this time everything falls into place, and Spain can overcome the challenges they have faced before. It is time for them to prove to the world why they deserve to be considered among the best in the game. If they can stay fit and avoid any major upsets, they should be in the mix for the title.
Written by Unnati Naidu
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