The Spanish women's national football team kicks off their UEFA Nations League title defense against Belgium at the Ciutat de Valencia, aiming to secure their first victory of this edition. The match, scheduled for February 21 at 18:45 hours, marks the opening of group A3, where Spain also faces strong contenders like England and Portugal later.
Head coach Montse Tomé's squad is coming off a successful international break, highlighted by recent friendlies where they dominated opponents, including a 5-0 win over South Korea. The expectation is to translate this form onto the competitive stage of the Nations League, starting with Belgium, who have historically struggled against the Spanish side, recording eleven defeats to Spain's two wins and three draws across their previous encounters.
Tomé's players are eager to carry the momentum from the last season where they emerged triumphant. The current lineup features top players such as Aitana Bonmatí and Irene Paredes, both set to play pivotal roles. Injuries to key figures like Alexia Putellas and Jenni Hermoso—who has been absent from recent matches due to off-field controversies—pose challenges but also provide opportunities for newer talents to step up.
The Ciutat de Valencia, with a capacity of approximately 25,000, is expected to see strong attendance for the match. This venue holds historical significance as it has hosted various significant events, including men’s games and the final of the Rugby King’s Cup.
To maximise broadcast reach, RTVE secured the rights to air the match live, available on La1 and through the RTVE Play app, which is compatible with various devices. Fans can expect detailed coverage and post-match analysis online, continuing the tradition of delivering comprehensive sports journalism.
The atmosphere will be charged not only due to the match's competitive nature but also because of recent events shrouding the Spanish football community. The recent trial involving former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales has cast a long shadow, leading to player discussions about morale and focus. Coach Tomé has attempted to shield her team from these distractions, emphasizing solidarity and teamwork as the core values they will rely on.
Bélgica enters this match with their own set of circumstances, featuring new head coach Elisabet Gunnarsdóttir. The 'Red Flames,' as they are nicknamed, are seeking to make their own mark against the Spanish team, which historically dominates this matchup. Despite these challenges, Spain remains hopeful of starting strong against Belgium.
Montse Tomé's strategy will likely lean on controlling possession and creating goal-scoring opportunities, countering Belgium's direct style of play. The last encounters between these teams ended favorably for the Spanish side, underscoring their ambition as they look to defend their title.
Anticipation builds as the match draws near, with fans gearing up for what could be another memorable chapter between these two nations. With the competition heating up, every point will count, and Spain looks to showcase their prowess firmly on the pitch.