SPAIN
The Spanish National Football Team, currently ranked number 1 in the world, is poised to make history with their artful play and unwavering determination. With a blend of technical brilliance and passion, these formidable athletes have risen to the top, dominating the global stage with their captivating style of football. As they embark on their Olympic journey, join us in celebrating the sheer excellence and indomitable spirit of Spain's finest. Get ready to experience the magic of soccer as the reigning champions of the world chase Olympic gold in Paris!
Why Spain?
Spain's National Women's Soccer Team has firmly established itself as a global powerhouse in recent years, currently holding the top spot in the world rankings. Their impressive performances in various tournaments over the past year or two have showcased their skill and tactical acumen, making them a formidable opponent on the international stage. With notable victories against top-tier teams, Spain has proven their ability to excel under pressure and deliver results when it matters most. As they prepare for their first ever Olympics, the Spanish team's relentless spirit and artful play promise to captivate audiences and reaffirm their status as true champions of women's soccer. Their journey is not just about winning; it's about setting new standards and inspiring a new generation of players around the world.
Spain: Route to Qualifying
The Spanish National Football team is set to play in their first ever Olympics this summer. They clinched their spot with a 3-0 win over the Netherlands in the semi-finals of the UEFA Women's Nation League. The team had just won the FIFA Women's World Cup the year before, adding another notch to their legendary season. This team has been an unstoppable force in almost every tournament, including in the home teams of their players across Europe.
Coach's Corner: Montse Tomé
Key Players
Politics & Controversy
Back in 2022, Women's Football in Spain was rocked when a group of players sent in their resignations. Alexis Putellas, who was injured at the time tweeted a collective statement, asking to not be called up to the team until " situations that affect our emotional and personal state, our performance and, consequently, the results of the Selection and that could lead to undesirable injuries are reversed". The players and federation were in a standoff, refusing to play until the coaching staff and strategies were improved. This was a first step towards empowerment in women's soccer that the world had not seen as extensively until now.
The Spanish federation sullied an already strenuous relationship with the women's team after president Luis Rubiales kissed forward Jenni Hermoso without her consent after the final of the 2023 World Cup. This kiss, just minutes after Spain's victory, left Hermoso, the team, and fans confused and angry. Unsurpisingly, Rubiales faced public backlash. State prosecutors accused Rubiales of sexual assault and for allegedly trying to coerce Hermoso to publicly support him in the public backlash against him. The judge also ruled that along with Rubiales, former Spain coach Jorge Vilda, sports director of Spain's men's team Albert Luque, and the federation former head of marketing Rubén Rivera should be tried for allegedly pressuring Hermoso to defend Rubiales, a step she refused to take.FIFA banned Rubiales for three years until after the men's 2026 World Cup. His ban will expire before the next women's tournament in 2027. Spain's sports authority also ruled him unfit to hold a post in sports management for three years. Head coach, Jorge Vilda, was terminated and replaced with Montse Tomé.