Jenni Hermoso's Triumphant Spain Return Sealed with Winning Goal

Jenni Hermoso of Spain scored a decisive winning goal in a remarkable comeback to the national team, amidst the previous unwanted kiss scandal that had cast a shadow over La Roja's World Cup victory in August. The talented forward unleashed a left-footed strike in the 89th minute, securing a 1-0 triumph for the reigning world champions against Italy in the UEFA Women's Nations League clash held in Salerno.

Television broadcasts depicted jubilant Spanish fans cheering and leaping in joy as Hermoso was embraced by her celebratory teammates.

"After Italy adopted a defensive approach, we required someone like Jenni to shine with her shooting prowess," commented Spain's head coach Montse Tomé following the match. "The fact that Jenni scored the goal fills us all with immense happiness. We have witnessed her radiant smile, which brings joy to everyone."

Hermoso, a 33-year-old player for Mexican club Pachuca Femenil, did not participate in Spain's last two matches against Sweden and Switzerland in September. Tomé had stated that her absence was due to wanting to ensure the star's well-being.

Following Spain's victory over England in the Women's World Cup final in Sydney, Spanish Football Federation President Luis Rubiales forcibly kissed Hermoso during the medal ceremony, resulting in a global outpouring of support for her.

On August 20, 2023, at Stadium Australia in Sydney, Australia, FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura congratulated Salma Paralluelo of Spain during the award ceremony following the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Final match between Spain and England. [Photo by Alex Pantling - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images]

Alex Pantling/FIFA/Getty Images

Rubiales unwanted kiss on Jennifer Hermoso derailed joy of Spains Womens World Cup success, says FIFA Secretary General

Rubiales' behavior sparked a crisis in Spanish soccer and led to condemnation both within Spain and globally. As a result of the intense backlash he faced for several weeks, Rubiales, aged 46, subsequently resigned from his position as the president of the country's soccer association last month. Currently, he is the subject of an investigation by Spanish prosecutors for alleged sexual assault and coercion.

Rubiales' actions have partially marred the tournament and disrupted Spain's jubilant celebrations, according to a high-ranking official at FIFA, the governing body of soccer.

"I instantly recognized that it was highly inappropriate," declared Fatma Samoura, outgoing Secretary General of FIFA, during an interview with CNN's Senior Sports Analyst Darren Lewis at the esteemed Best of Africa Awards in London.

Spain next travel to Switzerland on October 31.