FIFA WWC: Spain has the edge against England in the Sunday final
Sunday’s Women’s World Cup final between Spain and England has the attention of millions around the globe. The focus is primarily on the abundance of talent that will be on display from the players on the pitch, but when it comes to the Spaniards, there is a darker undertone that will need to be resolved following the conclusion of the tournament, win or lose.
La Roja’s head coach, Jorge Vilda, has been a key part of the controversy that has been rumbling for some time, and he was prepared to deflect inquiries regarding the notable absences of some of his star players on the eve of their impending World Cup final encounter.
Amidst a backdrop of controversy and disputes surrounding the treatment of the team, Vilda has steered Spain to their inaugural final. The high-stakes match at the Australia Stadium in Sydney comes a scant year after a faction of 15 players staged a significant dissent.
Originating in September 2022, these confrontations had the potential to disrupt Spain’s aspirations, until an uneasy truce was established just before the commencement of the World Cup.
These players, collectively known as ‘Las 15′, included Patri Guijarro, Aitana Bonmati, Mapi Leon, Mariona Caldentey, Sandra Panos, Claudia Pina, Lola Gallardo, Ainhoa Moraza, Nerea Eizagirre, Amaiur Sarriegi, Lucia Garcia, Ona Batlle, Leila Ouahabi, Laia Alexandra and Andrea Pereira.
Though a resolution seems to have been reached, it seems to be a tenuous one. Of the initial 15, only Bonmati, Caldentey, and Batlle have found their way into Vilda’s roster for the finals. Despite the tumult and uncertainty, Spain has successfully advanced to the final stage, secured through a last-minute triumph over Sweden in the semi-finals.
Vilda avoids controversy, focused on the final
When questioned during the press conference about his rapport with certain players, Vilda tersely responded, “I’d prefer to address the next inquiry.”
Pressed on whether the absence of crucial players in Australia affected him “negatively”, Vilda appeared to disregard this line of questioning.
“Our focus for tomorrow is to establish ourselves as the preeminent team globally, an objective attainable through securing victory in the final,” he asserted.
Spain is out for revenge after England's Euros loss
Spain experienced a 2-1 defeat against England in extra time during last summer’s Euros quarter-final, during which the Lionesses subsequently clinched the championship on their home turf. Sarina Wiegman and her team are now poised to secure additional honors on Sunday.
Vilda remarked on the past loss at the Amex Stadium, stating, “While we recognize that we held the upper hand during that match, the outcome remains paramount.”
“Dueling with England necessitates our utmost prowess. Wiegman, with her demonstrable achievements, underscores the fruits of her labor – accomplishments of this caliber do not materialise without meticulous preparation and standout athletes. Anticipate a strategic match; we are committed to an all-out effort in this pivotal final,” Vilda concluded.
