England Endure World Cup Heartbreak as Dazzling Spain Reveals What's Lacking in the Lionesses
The exhibition showcased the path to winning a World Cup, while the final served as a painful reminder of what England needs to achieve. Sarina Wiegman led her team to the precipice of glory, but something crucial eluded them against a formidable Spain. In the end, the Women's World Cup crowned new champions, and it wasn't England. Spain possessed a unique football identity that elevated their game, exemplified by Olga Carmona's sublime goal that settled the match.
Wiegman attempted to tactically outmaneuver Spain, a skill she excelled at, but this time, it wasn't sufficient. Unfortunately, she faced defeat in consecutive World Cup finals, which stings all the more considering her team's readiness for this one.
Although the score was just 1-0, the footballing gap felt much wider. Confronting Spain presents a colossal challenge—deciding which areas to protect and how far to press forward. Even Wiegman eventually encountered a puzzle she couldn't solve, marking a game and challenge too formidable.
However, there's no disgrace in this defeat. Spain unquestionably boasts the world's finest squad, as evidenced by their trophy. The discussion will extend beyond the victory itself, particularly given the array of problems they overcame, culminating in debates about their manager, Jorge Vilda.
Vilda faced boos before the game, but the Spanish players' football identity overshadowed such concerns. Regrettably, they did the same to England for long stretches of the final. England's players, like Georgia Stanway and Millie Bright, displayed resilience, but it often seemed like there was always another Spanish player lurking.
The essence of this game hinged on Spain maximizing their possession advantage or England capitalizing on any lingering doubts. Spain boasts the most sophisticated football identity in women's football, translating into meticulously choreographed passing sequences. One such sequence early in the match served as a stark reminder of their prowess.
Olga Carmona rejoices after scoring for Spain (AFP via Getty Images)
Despite this warning, England's Lucy Bronze ventured into that same area, only to encounter a wall of Spanish defenders, leaving a gap behind her that Spain exploited brilliantly. The ensuing goal by Olga Carmona was a moment of class befitting a World Cup final, highlighting Spain's fluidity.
Despite Spain's excellence, they didn't maintain complete control. They were vulnerable to Alessia Russo's swift breaks, although the effort took a toll on her stamina. Moreover, Spain struggled with the final ball from wide positions, missing opportunities to extend their lead.
As the score remained 1-0, Spain grew increasingly nervous, especially after Jennifer Hermoso's missed penalty. Wiegman switched to a 4-2-3-1 formation, injecting fresh energy into the game, but a debatable handball decision led to another penalty. Although Hermoso's spot-kick was subpar, Mary Earps made a crucial save.
England still had hope, a moment that could alter the game's psychology. They made some inroads, with Lauren James forcing Catalina Coll into a save, but that was the extent of their chances. England grew desperate towards the end, understandable given the physical and mental toll of chasing the game for so long.
Spain's players had overcome adversity and showcased how the game should be played. England should not view this with shame but as the final step needed to reach the pinnacle of women's football.
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