In a rousing semi-final match of the Women’s Under-17 World Cup held on Thursday, October 31, 2024, defending champions Spain defeated England 3-0 to secure their place in the final.
The match, played at Felix Sanchez Stadium in Santo Domingo, saw Spain’s Alba Cerrato and Pau Comendador shine while England’s Zara Shaw scored an unfortunate own goal.
Lineups
Spain: Goalkeeper: Laia Lopez, Defenders: Martina Gonzalez, Ainoa Gomez, Celia Segura, Midfielders: Iris Santiago, Marta Rodriguez, Forwards: Alba Cerrato, Pau Comendador, Lucia Fernandez.
England: Goalkeeper: Emily Smith, Defenders: Olivia Johnson, Zara Shaw, Ella Turner, Midfielders: Grace Williams, Lily Evans, Sophie Brown, Forwards: Mia Jones, Ella Scott, Ruby Green.
How The Match Unfolded
The match started with England dominating possession and creating several chances. Midway through the first half, a defensive error allowed Olivia Johnson to fire a shot that hit the crossbar, leaving England frustrated. Spain began to find their rhythm and capitalized on a final attack before half-time, with Alba Cerrato scoring from a pinpoint cross by Celia Segura to put Spain ahead just before the break.
In the second half, Spain doubled their lead with slick passing from Segura and Ainoa Gomez, setting up Pau Comendador, who scored her fifth goal of the tournament to move clear in the race for the Golden Boot. England pushed high up the pitch for a way back into the game but was hit on the counter as Spain grabbed a late third goal. Zara Shaw turned Iris Santiago’s goal-bound effort into her own goal, sealing the match for Spain.
Post Match Analysis
Spain’s performance was a masterclass in clinical finishing and solid defense. Alba Cerrato’s return from suspension was a significant boost for the team, and her goal just before the break was a testament to her determination and skill. Pau Comendador’s fifth goal of the tournament secured the win and put her in the lead for the Golden Boot. Despite their efforts, England could not break through Spain’s defense and will now face the United States in the third-place play-off.
England started the match strongly, dominating possession and creating several chances. Midway through the first half, Olivia Johnson’s shot hit the crossbar, leaving England frustrated.
Just before the break, Spain capitalized on a final attack. Alba Cerrato scored from a pinpoint cross by Celia Segura, putting Spain ahead.
Spain doubled their lead in the second half with slick passing from Segura and Ainoa Gomez, setting up Pau Comendador, who scored her fifth tournament goal.
England pushed high up the pitch to get back into the game but were hit on the counter. Zara Shaw turned Iris Santiago’s goal-bound effort into her own goal, sealing the match for Spain.
Spain’s Dominant Defense: Spain’s solid defense and clinical finishing were key to their victory. The team kept England at bay throughout the match, securing their place in the final.
What’s Next
In the final on Sunday, Spain will face North Korea, who beat England 4-0 in the group stages. This match promises to be an exciting clash as Spain aims to win the World Cup for a third consecutive time. Meanwhile, England will look to bounce back and secure third place when they take on the United States on Sunday.
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