Spain recorded a resounding 3-0 victory over Costa Rica in their opening group B fixture at the Westpac Stadium in New Zealand. The La Roja were unplayable on the day as they secured a statement victory to go top of their group.
It is a result that will not only worry Group B opponents like Zambia and Japan but also fellow FIFA World Cup favorites like the USA, Germany, and England.
The encounter between Spain and Costa Rica was nothing like that of the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Spain went ahead in the 21st minute when Costa Rican defender Valeria del Campo guided the ball into her own net. It was not long before La Roja doubled their lead courtesy of a stunning goal from FC Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmatí.
Esther González made it three goals for Spain in the space of six minutes as she guided her left-footed volley past Daniela Solera. It was an abysmal first half for Costa Rica until shot-stopper Solera denied Spain a fourth from the penalty spot.
Spain scored three goals out of 46 shots
The result, however, did not reflect the dominance of Spain thanks to Solera’s heroic saves between the sticks. The goalkeeper’s birthday was marked by a performance that saw her produce ten (10) saves.
Spain’s masterclass against Costa Rica will definitely send shivers to Zambia and Japan, who meet at Waikato Stadium on Saturday.
A win for either side will be crucial to increasing their chances of progressing to the knockout stages.
Reacting to the win midfielder Teresa Abelleira said: “Getting this result is very positive. I really wanted to start [well] in this tournament,” while Spain defender, Ivana Andres added that: “We are very happy to start the World Cup winning. This debut gives us confidence.”
Up next for Spain are debutants Zambia, who recently stunned Germany with a 3-2 victory a fortnight ago.
It promises to be an exciting fixture, as the La Roja could be eyeing progression to the last 16. The Copper Queens, on the other hand, will be keen on producing another upset.
