Spain starts its World Cup journey with win in Washington

At the Audi Field in Washington, under a clear sky and with tickets sold out, the Spanish women's national team lived its "American dream" as they opened their qualifying campaign for the Brazil World Cup with a convincing victory over the United States.

A varied lineup under the direction of Sonia Bermúdez

Sonia Bermúdez fielded a lineup with many injury absences: Fiamma Benítez in midfield alongside Patri Guijarro and Alexia Putellas; Nanclares as goalkeeper; the pair Laia Codina‑María Méndez as centre‑backs; and the attacking trio of Salma Paralluelo, Edna Imade and Eva Navarro.

The goals that defined the match

Patri Guijarro opened the scoring with a curled right-foot shot that silenced the lively crowd. After a move that started from Nanclares, Lucía Corrales fed Imade and the ball reached Paralluelo, whose cross was expertly finished by Eva Navarro, who beat the United States goalkeeper to seal the second goal.

Spanish dominance persisted despite the pressure from the current four‑time champions. The defence, led by Nanclares, made two key saves in the second half and denied a penalty from Yohannes, extending the lead.

The match was also marked by the dismissal of Athenea del Castillo after a hair‑pulling incident, a sanction confirmed by VAR just minutes after her entry.

In the second half three players made their debuts: Natalia Ramos, Clara Pinedo and Clara Serrajordi in midfield, while Andrea Medina and Ainhoa Marín came on without making a significant impact.

The United States tried to respond, with attempts from Thompson, Wilson and Trinity Rodman that were neutralised by the Spanish defensive organisation.

When the match ended, La Roja maintained its lead in the first friendly of the series and extended its “American dream”, while preparing for the second clash that will take place in Philadelphia.