February 29, (THEWILL) – Spain continued their dominant run of form with a comfortable 2-0 victory over France in the final of the inaugural UEFA Women’s Nations League in Seville on Wednesday.
The world champions, coached by Montserrat Tome who took over from controversial former boss Jorge Vilda after the World Cup triumph, secured the trophy at the first time of asking. Goals from Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati and Mariona Caldentey saw Spain completely outclass tournament hosts France.
Spain enjoyed the majority of possession and chances throughout, deservedly taking the lead just after the half hour mark. An unmarked Bonmati arrived to expertly volley home Olga Carmona’s cross. They doubled their advantage shortly after half time, with Caldentey sweeping home Ona Batlle’s low delivery.
France, who will hope to challenge for Olympic glory on home soil in Paris later this year under coach Herve Renard, struggled to make any inroads against a dominant Spanish defence. They failed to register a single shot on target as Spain kept their first ever clean sheet against their rivals.
Centre back Irene Paredes went close to making it three for Spain when her powerful header was tipped over by goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin. But two goals were more than enough on a comfortable night for the Women’s World Cup and now Nations League winners.
The emphatic scoreline sets Spain up perfectly for their debut Olympic campaign. France will need to improve dramatically if they are to threaten for a medal in Paris. However, the night belonged to Spain, worthy and comfortable victors in the inaugural Women’s Nations League showpiece.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
