Spain's Women's National Team staged a thrilling comeback to defeat Belgium 3-2 in the opening match of the inaugural Women's Nations League, demonstrating resilience just hours after the sentencing of former Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales. The dramatic clash, held Friday, showcased the teams' emotional rawness and competitive spirit amid the backdrop of Rubiales' controversial actions and the subsequent trial.
Initially, it seemed Belgium had the upper hand, leading 2-0 with goals from Mariam Toloba and Tessa Wullaert. With time running out, Spain appeared to be on the brink of defeat, but the tide turned spectacularly as the reigning champions found their rhythm. Barcelona striker Claudia Pina ignited the comeback with a curling strike from the edge of the penalty area, sending the ball to the bottom corner of the net just minutes before the end of regular time.
Then, it was Lucia Garcia who levelled the match during stoppage time, bundling the ball home after relentless pressure. Just when it seemed both teams would settle for a point, Benfica’s Cristina Martin-Prieto delivered the decisive blow, scoring the winning goal deep within injury time, leaving the home crowd ecstatic.
This stunning victory came hot on the heels of the Rubiales trial verdict, where the former president was found guilty of sexual assault for kissing player Jenni Hermoso without consent during the medals ceremony at the 2023 Women's World Cup final. Rubiales has since been fined over €10,000 and slapped with various restrictions, including staying 200 meters away from Hermoso.
Midfielder Mariona Caldentey reflected on the emotional significance this victory had for the team. “What we want is to win games,” she said, expressing relief and focus post-trial. “Obviously, it’s been a difficult few months for everyone. Now the sentence is out, everything’s been said and done, and we’ve come out to win.”
The players are attempting to move forward, channeling their emotions from the trial verdict and ensuring it fuels their play on the pitch. Defender Laia Codina, who also testified during the trial, shared her experiences of the emotional toll, stating, “When this all started I knew I had to take the stand...it was tough, but once you’re there, you just have to say what you saw.”
Rubiales’ actions at the World Cup, which sparked outrage and backlash around the world, have cast shadows over the women’s football scene. The trial and conviction have heightened the discourse around consent and accountability, and the team's resilience has become emblematic of their fight for respect and equality within the sport.
Looking ahead, Spain gears up for their next match against England, who recently faced Portugal to a 1-1 draw. Spain coach Montse Tome has navigated through complex team dynamics, as Hermoso remains absent from this international break, spotlighting the challenges faced by the team both on and off the field.
Despite the tumultuous environment, England manager Sarina Wiegman voiced her support for the Spanish players, signifying solidarity among female athletes across borders. Wiegman remarked, “It’s really sad they have this on their path… they have so much courage to stand for this, and we stand in solidarity with them.”
Spain, ranked second globally and reigning world champions, is eager to build on their dramatic win as they set their eyes on potential glory, ensuring they play not just for the trophies, but for respect and change within the sport.
The thrilling nature of the match not only electrified the fans but also laid bare the challenges confronting women athletes worldwide. By focusing on their sport, the Spanish team appears to be sending a powerful message about resilience, unity, and the importance of reclaiming their narrative following significant upheaval.