Post No. 994 - Gutted

I’m gutted for England. Not that the ladies from Spain are not worthy champions of the world, they are, but I liked the way England set up and played, and in particular I admire Lucy Bronze, who has probably played her last World Cup. 

Like Argentina this past summer, when the men suffered a shock loss to Saudi Arabia in the group stage and then went on to run the table and lift the cup, Spain was humiliated by a spunky Japanese team, 4-0. The Japanese made it look easy, running through and around Spain on their way to topping the group. But that’s the point about tournament football -- a team can weather a poor outing in the group stage and get themselves sorted out -- which is precisely what Spain did.

Like so many finals, this one was close, hard fought, competitive, and it was one error by England and one moment of recognition and flawless execution that sealed it for Spain. When Lucy Bronze carried the ball into the center circle and was dispossessed it left a massive space behind her that her teammates were slow to fill. Two quick passes set Olga Carmona of Spain free to send a low shot into the far corner, perfectly placed, beyond the reach of England’s goalkeeper. That 29th minute goal was all Spain needed. For the next 70 minutes Spain throttled England’s attack, making it difficult for England to move the ball and create chances. England is a good attacking team, but they just couldn’t find a way through the extremely well-organized and disciplined Spanish defense. England hardly troubled Spain’s goalkeeper, a testament to Spain’s tactical plan and execution. 

As I mentioned, I’m particularly bummed for Lucy Bronze, a consummate professional at her position. She did everything she possibly could for her team, from trying to create links with the attacking players to putting her body on the line to block shots. Her reading of the match was superb. She ran and ran and ran. A remarkable player. 

But take nothing away from Spain. They created more chances than England and displayed solidity on defense and were the better side on the day. Champions just get the job done.