After an enthralling month of action, the stage is set for the Women's World Cup 2023 final, where Spain Women will take on England Women in a historic clash in Sydney. Both nations are vying to secure their first-ever Women's World Cup trophy, adding an extra layer of excitement to this highly anticipated final showdown.
Match Preview: A Clash of Dreams
In a highly-anticipated final showdown, Spain Women will face England Women in the Women's World Cup 2023 final. Both teams are on a quest for their first-ever Women's World Cup title after an exciting month of competition.
Spain started the tournament strongly with wins over Costa Rica and Zambia but faced a setback with a 4-0 loss to Japan in the group stage. However, they bounced back with a dominant 5-1 win over Switzerland in the last-16. Spain's journey included a thrilling quarter-final against the Netherlands, which they won in extra time thanks to Salma Paralluelo's goal. Olga Carmona's sublime strike secured their spot in the final. Spain has been the tournament's top scorers with 17 goals, showcasing their offensive prowess.
England, following their European Championship success, continued their impressive run in Australia & New Zealand. They navigated a tough last-16 match against Nigeria, winning in a penalty shootout. In the quarter-finals, goals from Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo secured a 2-1 victory over Colombia. England displayed determination in the semi-finals against Australia, winning 3-1 with goals from Ella Toone, Sam Kerr, Lauren Hemp, and Alessia Russo.
Sarina Wiegman, England's coach, aims to avoid a repeat of the 2019 final when her Netherlands side lost to the USA. Last year's European Championships saw England narrowly beat Spain in the quarter-finals, providing added motivation for this Women's World Cup final.
Team News: Key Players and Selection Decisions
Spain expects Alba Redondo and Salma Paralluelo to recover from injuries, with the latter likely to serve as an impact substitute. Oihane Hernandez, returning from suspension, may find herself on the bench due to Olga Carmona's impressive performances. Esther Gonzalez is in contention to boost Spain's forward line.
For England, coach Sarina Wiegman must decide between Ella Toone and Lauren James, with Toone likely to start after her semi-final goal. The dynamic duo of Alessia Russo and Lauren Hemp, with three goals each in the tournament, will aim to add to their tally in the final.
The Women's World Cup 2023 final promises to be a historic clash as Spain and England vie for their first-ever championship. Football fans worldwide eagerly anticipate this momentous event in Sydney.
Spain Women possible starting lineup:
Coll; Batlle, Paredes, Codina, Carmona; Bonmati, Abelleira, Hermoso; Redondo, Caldentey, Gonzalez
England Women possible starting lineup:
Earps; Carter, Bright, Greenwood; Bronze, Stanway, Walsh, Daly; Toone; Russo, Hemp