Women’s World Cup: Spain thrash Zambia to progress to last-16

Spain hammered Women’s World Cup newcomers Zambia to secure their place in the second round.

Jenni Hermoso and Alba Redondo scored twice after Teresa Abelleira’s opener as they defeated the tournament’s lowest-ranked team 5-0.

The result has secured Spain’s place in the knockout rounds with a game to spare. Japan’s progress has also now been confirmed after their 2-0 victory over Costa Rica earlier.

Spain opened the scoring in the ninth minute when Abelleira sent a stunning 25-yarder into the top-left corner.

Two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas started for Spain after her return from a long-term injury and was heavily involved in the Spain attack. Her cross met the head of Hermoso to double Spain’s lead.

Zambia did well to keep the scoreline to two but tired in the second half before Spain added three more in the final 20 minutes.

Redondo rounded goalkeeper Eunice Sakala before Hermoso bagged her 50th Spain goal.

It could have been a hat-trick late on for Hermoso but her shot was tipped onto the crossbar, before Redondo fired in Spain’s fifth.

Spain meet Japan to decide which team progresses as Group C winners on Monday (8am). Zambia’s dead rubber against Costa Rica takes place at the same time.

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