Women’s World Cup: Spain reach first final after late drama against Sweden

Spain have reached their first-ever Women’s World Cup final after a 2-1 win over Sweden.

The match looked to be heading to extra time with 10 minutes remaining but Salma Paralluelo opened the scoring.

Rebecka Blomqvist equalised in the 88th minute but Spain captain Olga Carmona netted the winner a minute later to spark scenes of jubilation amongst the Spain fans.

Spain will face either England or Australia in the final on Sunday, who meet in the second semi-final tomorrow.

Sweden’s Fridolina Rolfo got the first shot on target of the match just before half time but her volley was turned behind by goalkeeper Cata Coll.

Both teams struggled to make a breakthrough in the second half too but Paralluelo’s 81st-minute strike put Spain ahead when she found the bottom corner.

Blomqvist thought she had forced the match into extra time with a half volley across goal, but the match was only level for 93 seconds.

Carmona delivered the winning goal superbly with a shot that went in off the crossbar from 20 yards.

Spain had previously won only one of their seven World Cup matches before this year but will now be preparing for a final showdown on Sunday.

For Sweden, a third-place playoff awaits on Saturday.

Cover Photo: Flag of Spain, Undated” by nathanh100 is licensed under CC BY 2.0 .