Caitlin Murray, a general editor for ESPN.com, has an extensive background in reporting and writing about soccer. She has contributed to publications such as The New York Times, The Guardian, Yahoo Sports, Fox Sports, the Associated Press, and more. Murray is also the author of the book “The National Team: The Inside Story of the Women Who Changed Soccer,” which garnered recognition from Vanity Fair, The Financial Times, NPR, and The Los Angeles Times. She can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @caitlinmurr.
Spain emerged as the victors in the Women’s World Cup, defeating England 1-0 at Stadium Australia to claim their first-ever championship title. Despite England having possession of the ball for much of the game, Spain secured their crucial opening goal through a swift counter-attack. After gaining possession in the midfield, Teresa Abelleira swiftly shifted the play to Mariona Caldentey, who then set up Olga Carmona for a decisive goal.
Although Spain had the opportunity to extend their lead with a missed penalty by Jennifer Hermoso, the impressive performance of England goalkeeper Mary Earps prevented them from doing so. In truth, Spain appeared to be the superior team, dominating England with their passing skills throughout the match. Spain outshot their opponents 13 to 8, showcasing their strength on the field. It was a disappointing outcome for England, following their impressive victory in the Euros last summer. The Lionesses had previously eliminated Spain from that tournament in the quarterfinals, making Spain’s victory all the more satisfying.
Individual player ratings for the match are as follows. For Spain: Cata Coll (GK) – 6, Olga Carmona (DF) – 7, Laia Codina (DF) – 6, Irene Paredes (DF) – 7, Ona Batlle (DF) – 7, Jenni Hermoso (MF) – 5, Teresa Abelleira (MF) – 7, Aitana Bonmatí (MF) – 8, Mariona Caldentey (FW) – 7, Salma Paralluelo (FW) – 7, Alba Redondo (FW) – 6. The substitutes, Oihane Hernández (FW), Ivana Andrés (DF), and Alexia Putellas (FW), did not have ample opportunity to make a significant impact on the game.
For England: Mary Earps (GK) – 8, Alex Greenwood (DF) – 7, Millie Bright (DF) – 7, Jessica Carter (DF) – 6, Rachel Daly (LW) – 5, Ella Toone (MF) – 5, Keira Walsh (MF) – 4, Georgia Stanway (MF) – 5, Lucy Bronze (RW) – 4, Lauren Hemp (FW) – 6, Alessia Russo (FW) – 4. The substitutes, Chloe Kelly (LW), Lauren James (MF), and Beth England (MF), were unable to provide the necessary impact to turn the game around for England.
Despite the valiant effort by goalkeeper Mary Earps, Spain’s dominance on the field ultimately secured their victory in the Women’s World Cup final against England.