Spain and USA Set for Olympic Women’s Football Final Clash

AFP/APP

Lyon: World Cup holders Spain and four-time gold medallists the United States are on course for a showdown in the Olympic women’s football final, with both heavyweights favored to win on Tuesday.

Spain’s Path to the Final

Led by reigning Ballon d’Or Aitana Bonmati, Spain will face surprise semi-finalists Brazil in Marseille. Spain is making its Olympic debut, but their World Cup triumph last year has marked them as the current top side in international women’s football.

Despite nearly being eliminated in the quarter-finals against Colombia, where they trailed 2-0 before a dramatic comeback, Spain is determined to keep their Olympic dream alive. Young star Salma Paralluelo expressed the team’s ambition, saying, “We don’t want to leave here. We want to keep our Olympic dream alive. This team has no limits.”

USA’s Rejuvenation Under Emma Hayes

The United States, under new coach Emma Hayes, will meet Germany in Lyon. Hayes, who took over in May after a successful tenure at Chelsea, has quickly made an impact.

The USA topped their group with three wins and edged Japan in the quarter-finals, with Trinity Rodman scoring the decisive goal. The Americans have already defeated Germany 4-1 in the group stage, enhancing their confidence for the semi-finals. Forward Sophia Smith praised Hayes’ influence, stating, “We are so confident going into games. That comes from Emma. She believes in us so much.”

Germany’s Quest for Glory

Germany, gold medallists in 2016, are led by Horst Hrubesch and finished second in their group behind the USA. They narrowly advanced past reigning Olympic champions Canada on penalties in the quarter-finals, with goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger playing a crucial role by saving two penalties and converting the winning kick.

Defender Kathrin Hendrich highlighted Berger’s impact, saying, “It was a very tough game, but when it went to the shootout, I knew we had a great goalkeeper. It gave us confidence, and she got us the victory.”

Brazil’s Unexpected Journey

Brazil, who have won Olympic silver twice (2004 and 2008), have surprised many by reaching the semi-finals despite not being expected to advance this far. They advanced from their group as one of the best third-placed teams, despite a 2-0 defeat to Spain, where legendary captain Marta was sent off.

Brazil stunned hosts France in the quarter-finals with a 1-0 victory, although Marta is suspended for the semi-finals. The Brazilian Football Confederation has labeled her suspension “excessive” and plans to appeal to enable her participation.

Looking Ahead

The semi-finals promise high drama as Spain and the USA look to advance to the gold medal match in Paris on Saturday. Both teams have shown their strength and resilience, setting the stage for what could be an epic final showdown.