In the Women’s World Cup final, history awaits
ISLAMABAD: The Women’s World Cup will come to a fitting conclusion on Sunday with either England or Spain winning the title for the first time. The tournament has smashed numerous records both on and off the field.
The final of a World Cup that started with 32 teams, as opposed to 24 four years ago, and saw many of the favorites collapse early, will draw about 75,000 spectators to Sydney’s Stadium Australia. Together with Brazil, Italy, and Olympic winners Canada, Germany exited in the group stage. Holders the United States then followed them out the trapdoor in the round of 16 – their quickest exit ever.
On that occasion, England had the support of an enthusiastic home crowd; this time around, they won’t have that luxury. Australian supporters at the final are most likely to support Spain. The Women’s World Cup will culminate with a sold-out audience at Stadium Australia, which will cap off the most-attended competition ever.
Although Wiegman has a top-notch team at her disposal, she is probably England’s most valuable asset. As the first female coach to win the Euros with her home Netherlands and subsequently England, she is the gold standard for female coaches. Four years ago, Wiegman led the Dutch to the World Cup final, when they fell to the United States 2-0. Her players described her as calm but direct.
The fact that Spain has so many resources that they have barely missed the players who declined to play for Vilda is evidence of their depth. Additionally, the current two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas has been relegated to a supporting role as she works to get healthy and back in shape following an injury.
Published in EDP BLOGS on August 19,2023.
