Aitana Bonmati shined with a brilliant performance, scoring two goals and providing two assists, as Spain cruised to a 5-1 victory over Switzerland at Eden Park on Saturday, securing their place in the quarter-finals of the Women’s World Cup for the first time in their history.
Bonmati set the tone early in the last-16 clash in Auckland, opening the scoring for Spain, only to be matched by a spectacular own goal from Laia Codina, which leveled the score. Undeterred, Alba Redondo restored Spain’s lead, and Bonmati added another to make it 3-1. Codina redeemed herself with a goal, making it 4-1 before the halftime whistle. In the second half, Jennifer Hermoso added the fifth goal, delighting the 43,217 spectators in attendance, setting a new record crowd for a football match in New Zealand.
The result was a significant boost for Spain, following their 4-0 defeat to Japan in their last group game. The impressive performance justified coach Jorge Vilda’s decision to leave Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas on the bench, as she continues to recover from a serious knee injury. Putellas made a cameo appearance later in the match, showing her potential to play a key role in the later stages of the tournament.
With the quarter-finals now within reach, Spain eagerly awaits their next opponent, either the Netherlands or South Africa, in Wellington next Friday.
The Spanish team displayed their dominance, outplaying a Swiss team that had reached the last 16 without conceding a single goal. However, Switzerland’s exit means they are yet to win a major tournament knockout game.
Coach Vilda responded to the previous defeat by making five changes to the starting line-up, including Cata Coll in goal and Codina in central defense, both making their first appearances in the World Cup.
Bonmati, who plays for UEFA Champions League winners Barcelona, impressed with her opening goal, and her dynamic performance continued to trouble the Swiss defense throughout the game.
Spain showcased their attacking prowess, led by the Barcelona contingent, with Redondo and Bonmati leading the charge with their goals. Redondo’s header and Bonmati’s stunning finish showcased their prowess in front of goal.
By halftime, Spain had firmly taken control of the match, leading 4-1, with Switzerland unable to muster a single attempt on goal.
The fifth goal, scored by Hermoso, demonstrated Spain’s dominance and the team’s relentless pursuit of a historic quarter-final berth.
Bonmati’s stellar performance earned her a well-deserved substitution later in the game, as Putellas was sent on to close out the match.
With the victory, Spain can now celebrate their first-ever quarter-final appearance in the Women’s World Cup, marking a significant milestone in their footballing history. The team’s impressive form and unity on the pitch make them a formidable force, poised to take on the challenges that lie ahead in the knockout stages.
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