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England take on Spain in the "Women's World Cup Final". |
After 63 matches, numerous memorable instances, and an abundance of goals, the conclusion of the Women's World Cup is at hand, as Spain and England face off in the ultimate showdown.
The pivotal encounter will unfold at Sydney's Stadium Australia on Sunday, with both nations striving to secure their maiden Women's World Cup victory.
Ways to View
In the United States, FOX Sports will broadcast the games, while Telemundo will provide coverage in Spanish.
Australia's Seven Network and Optus Sport are set to air the matches, while the broadcasting rights in the United Kingdom are held by BBC and ITV.
A comprehensive breakdown of media rights holders for each country is accessible on the FIFA website.
The final match is scheduled to commence at 6 a.m. ET.
Pathways to the Final
Spain's Journey
Spain's journey commenced with an emphatic start. La Roja tallied eight goals in their initial two matches and conceded none. Yet, a startling 4-0 loss to Japan led to Spain securing second place in their group.
Under the guidance of Jorge Vilda, the team regained their momentum with a resounding 5-1 triumph over Switzerland in the round of 16—marking the nation's first-ever knockout stage victory. Subsequent closely contested matches against the Netherlands and Sweden ensued in the quarterfinals and semifinals.
Spain managed to defeat the Netherlands 2-1 in extra time. Progressing to the final was secured by an 89th-minute winning goal, clinching a 2-1 victory over Sweden in the last four.
Spain beat Sweden 2-1 in the World Cup semi final.
England's Path to the Final
Despite not consistently displaying their best form, the Lionesses dominated their group with three consecutive victories. An impressive 6-1 win against China in the final group stage match hinted at the team's lethal capabilities.
However, the knockout stages proved more challenging for England. Sarina Wiegman's squad narrowly advanced past Nigeria through a penalty shootout, followed by a close-fought 2-1 quarterfinal victory against Colombia.
In the semifinal against co-host Australia, England exhibited a notably improved performance, securing a 3-1 victory and dashing the hopes of the Matildas.
England knocked out co-host Australia to make it to the final.
Key Contributors
Spain's Impactful Substitute
Amid Spain's struggles in the quarterfinal and semifinal clashes, head coach Vilda turned to his bench for a spark of inspiration.
Salma Paralluelo emerged as the game-changer for La Roja. The talented 19-year-old, brought on as a substitute, proved decisive in Spain's last two World Cup matches. She netted a match-winning goal in the 111th minute against the Netherlands in the quarterfinal and opened the scoring in the semifinal against Sweden in the 81st minute.
The question remains whether Vilda will opt to start Paralluelo or adhere to the familiar strategy of utilizing her dynamic abilities as a substitute winger for Barcelona.
Salma Paralluelo has starred for Spain from the bench.
England's Tactical Adaptations
England entered the World Cup missing key players due to injuries. Throughout the tournament, their tactics underwent modifications as head coach Wiegman transitioned from the conventional 4-3-3 formation to a 3-5-2 setup, yielding improved performances.
One of the primary beneficiaries of this tactical alteration was the dynamic forward, Lauren Hemp. The Manchester City player initially had a subdued start to the World Cup. However, when positioned alongside Alessia Russo upfront, Hemp emerged as England's standout performer.
Lauren Hemp has been England's standout player in recent games.
Hemp's speed and skill were prominently on display, particularly in the semifinal victory against Australia. She contributed a goal and an assist in the 3-1 triumph, with her rapid counterattacks playing a pivotal role in England's historic win.
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