Spain's Sensational Triumph: Powerhouse Team Secures World Cup Knockouts with an Electrifying 5-0 Victory against Zambia

Spain showed why they are the pre-tournament favorites by being the first team to secure a spot in the knockout stage of the Women's World Cup with a dominant 5-0 victory over Zambia. Teresa Abelleira got the scoring started, and Jennifer Hermoso along with Alba Redondo both scored twice to lead Spain to their second win. Their victory also guaranteed Japan's qualification for the last-16, as Japan defeated Costa Rica 2-0 earlier in the day.

Both Spain and Japan have six points and will play each other on Monday for top spot in the group while Zambia and Costa Rica - both eliminated - will play for third.

Image:

Alexia Putellas made her first competitive start for Spain since overcoming an ACL injury

Spain received a boost before the game as coach Jorge Vilda included midfielder Alexia Putellas in the starting lineup. Putellas, who had fully recovered from injury, actively participated in the build-up play from the beginning.

Abelleira quickly eased any initial tension by scoring the fastest goal of the tournament. In the ninth minute, she collected the ball after an intricate passing sequence and unleashed a long-range shot that soared into the top corner.

Hermoso achieved her 100th cap for Spain just four minutes later, effortlessly heading the ball into the net at the far post as Zambia failed to defend against Putellas' cross. Despite Vilda's half-time substitutions of Putellas, Ona Batlle, and Salma Paralluelo, Spain maintained their dominant performance.

Image:

Alba Redondo celebrates as she scores Spain's fifth goal against Zambia. Despite Zambia goalkeeper Eunice Sakala's efforts in making multiple saves, she was unable to stop Redondo as the forward skillfully bypassed the 21-year-old goalkeeper to secure a goal, bringing the score to 3-0.

"Spain possesses extensive experience, while our team is still in the process of development, requiring further exposure," remarked Zambia captain Barbra Banda in her post-match statement. "When opportunities arise, it is crucial to convert them into goals. Regrettably, we were unable to find the back of the net."

"Regarding today's match, we demonstrated considerable improvement compared to our performance in the initial game," noted Zambia coach Bruce Mwape.

Spain has gained extensive experience and showcased commendable performance from the initial kickoff till the final whistle. Undoubtedly, we have gleaned valuable insights from observing their gameplay. As we gear up for our last match against Costa Rica, we remain determined to give it our all.

What is the schedule?

The quarter-finals are set to take place on August 11 and 12 in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney. Following that, the first semi-final will be held on August 15 in Auckland. The second semi-final will occur on August 16 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney, which will also serve as the venue for the final on August 20.

A third-place play-off will be played the day before the final on August 19 in Brisbane.