The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup continues Thursday (on FOX and the FOX Sports app) with Spain taking on the Netherlands in the opening quarterfinal game at Wellington Regional Stadium in New Zealand.
Spain and the Netherlands checked in at Nos. 3 and No. 2, respectively, in our latest World Cup power rankings. Thursday’s match features three Golden Boot favorites — Spain’s Jennifer Hermoso and Alba Redondo, along with the Netherland’s Jill Roord — while Dutch goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar is on the short list for this year’s Golden Glove award.
Spain is led by 25-year-old captain Aitana Bonmatí, who has a point to prove in this tournament en route to cementing herself as the best women’s player in the world.
The Netherlands will be without star midfielder Daniëlle van de Donk, who has been ruled out of the quarterfinals after picking up her second yellow card of the tournament in the knockouts versus South Africa. If players receive two yellow cards during two different matches, they’re automatically suspended from their team’s subsequent match.
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Spain vs. Netherlands
17′: The post says no — twice
Alba Maria Redondo Ferrer’s header went off the left post and then her shot off the ricochet also went off the post. Aitana Bonmati Conca then attempted a shot that went over the net, as Spain continued to force the issue.
4′: Missed opportunity
Spain nearly struck first in the early going, but Esther Gonzalez’ close-up shot went wide to the right.
1′: We’re off!
PREGAME
Setting the stage
The “World Cup NOW” crew previewed the match live on social media ahead of kickoff.
Check out the full Women’s World Cup schedule and how to watch each match live here. Find the latest scores here.
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