Spain stepped into the semifinals of the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup after an outstanding strike from Salma Paralluelo in the extra time led them to a 2-1 win over the Netherlands in Wellington.
The first half went goalless. In the second half, a push by Irene Paredes on Lineth Beerensteyn was denied, which led to the Dutch gaining a penalty after a review using video technology.
A penalty conversion from Mariona Caldente helped Spain get a lead in the 81st minute.
However, the Dutch made a comeback when Van der Gragt broke free on Victoria Pelova’s pass to smash the ball past the Spanish goalie, making it 1-1 in the 91st minute. 20 minutes later, Paralluelo’s strike helped Spain get a late victory.
Later that day, Sweden set up their semifinal clash with Spain in the World Cup after defeating a determined Japanese side by 2-1. Amanda Ilestedt presented Sweden with the advantage in the 31st minute, with the ball falling to her feet during a scramble near the goal, and she fired a shot from close range.
Japan looked like they were making their comeback in the game, but Fuka Nagano brushing the ball with her arm inside the box in the second half handed Sweden a penalty, which Filippa Angeldahl converted in the 51st minute.
Riko Ueki made a chance for Japan, but her shot confused the bar. Honoka Hayashi helped to get a nice finish by sweeping home in the 87th minute, but the goal came too late.
