Women’s World Cup; Ireland gone Spain through!

Mixed results for Europe in the Women’s World Cup, as Ireland disappointingly fails to secure a single point in the tournament, while Spain manages to advance to the next stage despite conceding four goals against Japan.

Ireland’s women’s World Cup journey came to a disappointing end, as they failed to make any impact in the tournament. The underdog Nigerian team managed to secure a spot in the round of 16 with a scoreless draw against Ireland. Nigeria finished second in Group B, with a surprising 3-2 win over Australia contributing to their success. Ireland’s star player, Katie McCabe, had a close chance in the 5th minute, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win. The Irish team, ranked 40th in the world, only managed to earn one point in their first major global tournament. Nevertheless, they hope to build on this experience and aim to qualify for the Women’s European Championship in 2025. Meanwhile, Nigeria, as Group B runner-up, will face the winners of Group D in the next stage.

Spain faced a tough match against Japan, conceding four goals in a 4-0 loss. Japan dominated the first half, scoring three times from quick breaks and adding one more goal in the second half. Despite Spain’s overwhelming possession, they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. Japan, known for their previous success in the World Cup, including being the surprise winners in 2011 and runners-up in 2015, showcased their strength by scoring four goals from only five attempts in the group stage. Both Japan and Spain had already secured spots in the round of 16, with Japan topping Group C and Spain finishing second. In the next round, Japan will face Norway, while Spain will take on Switzerland.

In other news, Australia’s women’s team, the Matildas, secured top spot in Group B with a convincing 4-0 win over Canada. Haley Raso’s first-half brace, along with goals from Mary Fowler and Steph Catley in the second half, ensured Australia’s advancement to the round of 16. Canada, the Olympic champion, faced elimination with this defeat. Australia will now face the second-place finisher from Group D in the next stage.

Additionally, tournament newcomer Zambia celebrated their first-ever win in the Women’s World Cup, defeating Costa Rica 3-1. Lushomo Mweemba scored the fastest goal of the tournament, and Barbra Banda added the 1,000th goal in Women’s World Cup history. Both Zambia and Costa Rica had already been eliminated from the knockout stage before this match.

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