Press comments on the World Cup
“Spain in the sky”, “world champion olé”: This is how international newspapers commented on the “La Roja” triumph
Spain’s players celebrate with the World Cup trophy after beating England
© Steve Markham/DPA
Spain’s footballers have won the World Cup for the first time. Coach Jorge Vilda’s team won Sunday’s final against England 1-0. There is a lot of praise in the international press.
The Spaniards had disenchanted European champions England in a rousing final with 1:0 (1:0). Captain Olga Carmona scored the decisive goal for the extremely strong new world champions in the 29th minute. England goalkeeper Mary Earps saved a hand penalty from Jennifer Hermoso (70th) in front of 75,784 spectators.
The international press is full of praise for Spain’s women – and the football tournament as a whole.
Great Britain:
“The Guardians”: “There is no shame in losing to a superior Spanish side, there will be no reproaches or image burning for a group of players who have left every bit of themselves on the Sydney pitch.”
“Independent”: “England suffer at the World Cup because Spain show the lionesses what they lack.”
“The Times”: “The lionesses’ dream comes to a bitter end.”
Spain:
“Marca”: “Spain in heaven! Olga Carmona goal helps Spain beat England and win the World Cup.”
“El País”: “Spain is immortalizing itself by conquering its first Women’s World Cup. Jorge Vilda’s side, characterized by the intelligence of (Aitana) Bonmatí and a left-foot shot by Olga Carmona, dissects the mighty England for the title and glory pick up.”
“El Mundo”: “The misfortune of the heroine Olga Carmona: her father died before the final and she found out about it afterwards (after the game).”
Germany:
“Free word” (Suhl): “It never occurred to the protagonists to complain publicly about unfairness, injustice or even referees. There was hardly any reason to complain to the referees from all over the world. If some of these values can reflect on the European Championships next summer, much would be gained.”
“Rhine Palatinate” (Ludwigshafen): “Anyone who compares women’s football from 20 years ago with what was offered Down Under will not recognize parts of the sport. Naturally, the men lack athleticism and speed. But when it comes to technique and tactics, the women have a lot followed up. Precise 40-meter passes or speed dribbling, where the ball practically sticks to your foot, are no longer a unique selling point for men. Before the tournament, it was suspected that the increase could dilute the level and entertainment value. The opposite was the case.”
Austria:
“Crown Newspaper”: “World champion olé! Spain’s women on the football throne. (…) “La Roja” celebrated a deserved 1-0 (1-0) final win against European champions England on Sunday in Sydney and was the first European team to climb the World Cup throne.”
Switzerland:
“View”: “Spain wins the final of the women’s World Cup in Sydney 1-0 against England. The southern Europeans win their first World Cup title. At the award ceremony for the Spanish women, an action by the Spanish association president Luis Rubiales (45) caused wide eyes. (. ..) When it’s Jennifer Hermoso’s (33) turn, the association president suddenly grabs the striker’s face and kisses her on the mouth.”