Aitana Bonmati Shines as Spain Smash Switzerland 5-1 to Reach First Ever Women’s World Cup Quarter-Final
Aitana Bonmati was the star of the show at Eden Park on Saturday, bagging two goals and setting up two more as Spain thrashed Switzerland 5-1. This historic win sends La Roja into their first Women’s World Cup quarter-final ever, sparking huge celebrations on Kiwi soil.
Bonmati Sets the Pace, Spain Dominates From Start to Finish
Bonmati opened the scoring early, only for Switzerland to hit back with a stunning own goal from Laia Codina that levelled the tie. But Spain’s firepower was relentless. Alba Redondo put Spain back in front before Bonmati struck again to make it 3-1. Codina redeemed herself with a goal just before half-time, and Jennifer Hermoso wrapped up the dominant display in the second half. The 43,217-strong crowd at Eden Park, a record for a football match in New Zealand, loved every minute.
Spain Bounce Back After Japan Setback, Putellas on Bench
Spain’s emphatic response came after a shock 4-0 group-stage loss to Japan. Coach Jorge Vilda’s bold gamble to rest Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas paid off. Putellas came on late as she recovers from a serious knee injury, hinting at a vital role ahead. Vilda shook up the lineup with five changes, including first-time starters Cata Coll in goal and Codina in defence, showing his intent to find winning combinations.
What’s Next? Spain Eye Quarter-Final Clash
Spain now await either the Netherlands or South Africa in Wellington next Friday. Their ruthless attack, led by the Barcelona stars Bonmati and Redondo, ripped apart a Swiss side that had not conceded a goal in the tournament until now. Switzerland’s tournament ends without a knockout win, while Spain’s historic run continues.
Spain’s Attack in Full Flow
Barcelona’s Bonmati and Redondo were the driving forces behind Spain’s goals. Redondo’s towering header and Bonmati’s clinical finishes kept the Swiss defence under constant pressure. By half-time, Spain commanded a comfortable 4-1 lead and had completely stifled Switzerland’s offensive threats, who struggled to hit the target even once.
Hermoso’s late strike sealed Spain’s status as a powerhouse and cemented their first ever spot in the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals. Bonmati’s dazzling display was rewarded with a rest as Putellas came on to close out the smashing victory.
This landmark win not only marks a huge milestone in Spanish football history but proves La Roja are now a serious force in the women’s game, ready to battle deeper into the tournament.
