Spain rode a dramatic path into the World Cup semi finals after a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands in Australia and New Zealand. Ivan Andres, speaking on Friday, admitted the team may not fully grasp what they have achieved yet, while acknowledging the historic step toward a possible title. He noted that the squad left everything on the pitch and earned a place among the last four teams, aiming to keep the momentum going as they push forward.
In discussing potential semi final opponents, whether Japan or Sweden emerge, Andrés stressed that either will present a tough challenge. He pledged the team would lay it all on the line and must be ready to face any rival.
Andres himself had previously battled a micro tear in the soleus that kept him on the bench versus Japan. He said he is now fully healed and prepared to contribute in any way needed to help the team succeed.
Coach Jorge Vilda praised the team for continuing to fight through adversity and noted a surge of adrenaline as they move into the semi finals. He reflected on the match as tougher than expected, with a rough spell in the air duels during the second period, yet the side recovered quickly. The coach highlighted the enduring spirit and growth shown by the players as they faced difficulties head on.
Vilda spoke about the pre overtime message to his players, emphasizing belief and perseverance in duels, and the strategic use of wings to tighten defense while seeking speed on the attack. He explained how substitutions were aimed at increasing pace and pressing the opposition, and said the plan paid off.
Salma Paralluelo emerged as the decisive scorer, earning Spain a first ever semi final berth in the Women’s World Cup. The 19 year old, whose background includes sprinting excellence, was celebrated as a player with immense potential who has many years of top level football ahead. The coach called her performance a burst of joy and a historic moment for Spanish football.
On keeping Salma on the field late in the game as part of a wider strategy to tire opponents, Vilda explained that his approach relied on pace and energy to influence the game. He highlighted Salma’s speed and versatility as key assets, especially given her track and field pedigree.
The team’s resilience drew strong praise from the coach, who described the game as an intense, emotional battle that tested every player. He noted that Salma’s goal injected a wave of joy across the squad and brought the crowd to life.
As Spain prepared for the next challenge, Vilda expressed confidence that the squad could reach the top echelons of the tournament. He said the team would begin readying for the semi final against the winner of the Japan vs Sweden match, keeping a clear eye on the final.
Following the victory, the Spanish delegation would travel to Auckland to await the semi final opponent, with the date set for August 15. Paralluelo reflected on the outpouring of support from family, teammates, and fans, saying the goal they deserved was a moment to share with everyone who believed in them. She credited the assist and the finish to a well-executed team move and described the moment as a turning point in her career.
Looking ahead, Salma said there are no preferred opponents and that the team will pursue the next objective with the same collective spirit, laughing and staying focused on the task at hand. The aim remains to reach the final and crown Spain with a championship.
Cata Coll, the Barcelona goalkeeper, commented that Spain knows how to suffer and that the team stayed composed even as the match wore on. Her thoughts centered on the potential penalties as overtime loomed, but she remained convinced the team would prevail in extra time. Recalling the moment when Salma’s shot clanged off the post, Cata described the surge of joy in the squad as a moment the players would never forget.
Her reflection on the day emphasized the confidence the team built in defense and attack, noting that her own duties kept her focused on maintaining stability while the crowd roared behind them.
Jennifer Hermoso, the leading scorer for Spain, spoke emotionally about the moment the team secured the semi finals. She described tears and elation, and emphasized that the squad has earned the chance to chase more glory. Hermoso urged everyone in Spain to feel the same pride as the players, pointing to the collective effort that carried them here and the two remaining games that stand between them and the final.
Netherlands coach Andries Jonker spoke with candor about the disappointment of losing but expressed pride in his players. He praised the team’s first half and acknowledged Spain’s strong execution, while noting the Dutch side responded more positively after halftime. He acknowledged that changes to the lineup surprised his opponent, yet insisted the Dutch performance did not account for the loss, attributing the outcome to Spain’s sustained effort and late scoring run.
Jonker also remarked on Spain’s ability to adapt and compete, indicating that the Dutch squad would refocus and continue their own preparations for future challenges. The exchange underscored the competitive spirit that defined a closely contested quarterfinal.