Madrid, June 9: Spain’s women’s national team coach, Sonia Bermudez, has issued a stern warning to her players. To secure direct qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, they must intensify their efforts.
Following a stunning 4-0 victory over England, Bermudez’s team has climbed to the top of their group. A win in their final group match against Iceland on Tuesday will guarantee their spot in Brazil.
According to a report by Xinhua, even if Spain fails to win, England could still qualify with a home victory over Ukraine in the same round of matches. Spain previously defeated Iceland 3-0 in their first group match on March 3 in Castellón, but Bermudez anticipates a tough challenge in Reykjavik.
In a pre-match press conference, Bermudez stated, “We know that on their home ground, they (Iceland) are a very tough, strong opponent. We are eagerly looking forward to tomorrow to try to achieve our goal.”
She warned that Iceland is a formidable team in terms of aerial duels, one-on-one confrontations, and second balls. They are quick to change the game and boast powerful forwards.
Bermudez expressed her satisfaction with Friday’s win, where Spain showcased excellent play, keeping England at bay for the full 90 minutes. Alexia Putellas scored two goals, while Patri Guijaro and Claudia Pina also found the net.
“Of course, winning and the manner in which we won has an impact, but this is a completely different game. Tuesday’s match will be in a different country and under different circumstances,” she noted.
She added that if Spain had been given the chance to secure direct qualification by winning their last group match at the start of the qualifiers, everyone would have accepted it. “We are prepared to enter this match with options—gaining three points and qualifying directly. Spain has never won in Iceland. I believe this is an additional motivation,” Bermudez concluded.
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