Spain is poised to contend for its inaugural Women’s World Cup championship title after Olga Carmona’s crucial 89th-minute goal propelled La Roja to a thrilling 2-1 victory over Sweden during Tuesday’s semifinal match.
Overcoming past challenges, including a near player revolt against coach Jorge Vilda last year, Spain has shown remarkable resilience. They now await the outcome of the Australia vs. England match, both of whom are tournament co-hosts. The final match is scheduled for Sunday in Sydney.
The ultimate victor on Sunday will etch their name in history as a first-time World Cup champion. Meanwhile, Sweden’s semifinal struggles continue, with four losses in five appearances, leaving them to compete for a third-place finish.
Late-game drama unfolded as Carmona’s goal proved decisive, arriving shortly after Sweden managed to level the score. In the 81st minute, Salma Paralluelo, the 19-year-old standout substitute who had previously secured Spain’s quarterfinal victory over the Netherlands, broke the scoreless deadlock. Her celebration with the crowd initially signaled a decisive moment for Spain. However, the jubilation was short-lived, as Rebecca Blomqvist equalized for Sweden in the 88th minute.
In a stunning reversal, merely 90 seconds later, Carmona outwitted Sweden’s goalkeeper Zecira Musovic, securing victory with her expertly executed goal.
