The Women’s World Cup on Wednesday was on steroids as Spain and Japan stamped their authority, securing their locations within the final 16 of the event.
The fiery conflict between Japan and Costa Rica noticed the previous emerge victorious with a cushty 2-0 win.
Hikaru Naomoto and Aoba Fujino had been the heroes of the hour, delivering precision strikes that left the Costa Rican protection shocked.
Japan’s fluid assaults and resolute protection showcased why they’re a drive to be reckoned with on this event.
On the opposite facet of the pitch, Spain delivered a masterclass in attacking prowess in opposition to a weakling Zambia, claiming a convincing 5-0 victory.
From the opening whistle, it was evident that La Roja had been on a mission to dominate.
Teresa Abelleira set the tone early, unleashing a thunderous shot from exterior the field that bulged the online within the ninth minute.
Zambia’s protection was left scrambling, and Jennifer Hermoso capitalized on their vulnerability, including a second simply 4 minutes later.
Despite an impressed efficiency from Zambia’s goalkeeper, Eunice Sakala, Spain’s attacking prowess proved an excessive amount of to deal with.
Alba Redondo got here off the bench to make her mark, netting twice within the 69th and eighty fifth minutes, whereas Hermoso secured her brace within the seventieth minute.
The match additionally featured a memorable second when a aim for Spain was confirmed after a prolonged video overview.
The referee’s unintended mix-up added a contact of drama, however ultimately, justice was served for the Spanish facet.
“We haven’t seen the best version of Spain yet, that is absolutely clear,” admitted coach Jorge Vilda, hinting at much more thrills to return.
With 4 days to regroup earlier than their showdown in opposition to Japan, the Spaniards are decided to showcase their true potential.
Elsewhere Ireland joined Costa Rica and Zambia in dealing with the heartbreaking actuality of elimination from the event.
Despite scoring their first-ever World Cup aim, Ireland succumbed to Canada in a decent 2-1 encounter.
Captain Katie McCabe’s fourth-minute stunner set the tone for an electrifying contest.
However, an unlucky own-goal by Megan Connolly gifted Canada the equalizer, paving the best way for Adriana Leon’s match-winning strike within the 53rd minute.
Canada’s combating spirit and dedication have made them sturdy contenders for the title.
Their comeback victory in opposition to Ireland cemented their place on the prime of Group B.
Meanwhile, Ireland’s dream run at their maiden World Cup look got here to an finish, however they go away the stage with their heads held excessive, having showcased large potential.
Source: www.dailysabah.com
