On July 20, 2022, Spain faced a heartbreaking loss in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Eurocup against England (2-1). This painful defeat not only left a scar but also set the stage for triumph two years later when they became champions in the 2023 World Cup . Now, looking back, it’s apparent this wound has healed—though it required a journey through significant pain. Among the roster for the upcoming championship are 12 of the 23 players who bolstered that pivotal Eurocup team, now seeking Spain’s first continental title. This renewed squad feels more appreciated and capable of focusing solely on football , gaining vital support from their fans and the City of Football. The monumental shift in perception towards Spanish women’s football was catalyzed by a distressing incident that highlighted the urgency for change.
The legal consequences for Luis Rubiales (18 months of penalties for kissing Jenni Hermoso ) arose just weeks ago, while the pivotal shift in attitudes took shape on August 20, 2023. The players had previously voiced their demands for improvements to Rubiales and coach Jorge Vilda , yet none listened. In response, 15 players , including current captains Aitana Bonmatí and Mariona Caldentey , justifiably felt compelled to submit a letter interpreted by the RFEF as a resignation.
Initially, there were minor adjustments, but the excitement to participate in the World Cup momentarily overshadowed their fight for improvement. The triumph came with Olga Carmona’s goal against England, marking a second World Championship for Spain. However, the emotional aftermath of Rubiales’ non-consensual kiss on Hermoso during the trophy presentation reignited a storm that has lasted for two years.
“More Free, Secure, and Supported”
Despite Rubiales’ attempts to dismiss the gravity of his actions and his resistance during a scandalous assembly, the champions received overwhelming support from both the public and political realms. Rubiales faced disqualification from UEFA and was compelled to resign; Jorge Vilda was dismissed as well. The reins were handed over to his second-in-command, Montse Tomé , who, alongside the RFEF and the Consejo Superior de Deportes , worked tirelessly to regain trust—a challenge that has since been surmounted.
“Now we feel more free, more secure, and supported,” stated Alexia Putellas not long ago. The relationship with Tomé, which began amid tension during a team meeting in Oliva (Valencia), has evolved positively. Like a sculptor, the coach has molded the team amidst competition, overcoming initial clashes with leading players such as Aitana and working through minor strategic errors in crucial games.
Challenges became apparent, such as when a wrong lineup was submitted to UEFA without players Irene Paredes , Ivana Andrés , Esther González , and Mariona Caldentey . Moreover, the continuous query regarding Jenni Hermoso in every squad announcement remains a point of contention, as she navigates the judicial process against Rubiales, raising concerns within the RFEF.
The kiss of Rubiales to Jenni Hermoso sentenced as sexual assault.
Tomé has managed to lead the team, particularly through her commitment to revitalizing it with younger players, despite their limited national experience. Veteran players like Alexia and Paredes return to the Eurocup for their fourth try, now joined by Aitana and Mariona, embodying a blend of tradition and fresh talent.
The Long Curse of the Quarters
Amidst the turmoil, Spain secured their title in the Nations League , successfully qualifying for this Eurocup and the upcoming Nations League finale. However, their disappointing performance at the Paris Olympics , where they lost the bronze medal to Germany , shadowed their journey.
Entering the Eurocup, the team aims to break the longstanding curse that has confined them to quarter-finals since 1997. They will face Portugal , Belgium , and Italy in the group stage, while potential matches against England , France , or Germany loom ahead if they wish to advance to the later stages.
At their training hub in Lausanne, there are no defined limits placed on ambitions. They await Aitana’s recovery from viral meningitis , who is progressing well, and are keeping a close watch on goalkeeper Cata Coll , currently fighting through tonsillitis.