Spain’s women’s football team, the reigning world champions, showcased their resilience and skill in their opening match of the Paris Olympics, overcoming an early deficit to defeat Japan 2-1 in Group C. Aitana Bonmati, the Spanish playmaker, was the catalyst for the victory, scoring one goal and setting up another.
Japan drew first blood in the 13th minute with a stunning free kick from Aoba Fujino that sailed into the top right corner, leaving goalkeeper Cata Coll with only a fingertip touch. However, Spain responded swiftly and decisively, equalizing just nine minutes later. Athenea del Castillo’s astute pass found Bonmati, who calmly finished the opportunity after Spain sliced through the Japanese defense.
The second half saw Spain dominating possession and taking control of the match. Their relentless pressure paid off in the 74th minute when Mariona Caldentey, assisted by a precise pass from Bonmati, found the back of the net to put Spain ahead and secure their victory.
Meanwhile, Canada, the reigning Olympic champions, emerged victorious in a match that was overshadowed by a spying controversy. Despite the scandal, Canada triumphed over New Zealand 2-1 in their Group A opener.
The game was marred by allegations that the Canadian team used drones to spy on two New Zealand training sessions. The incident led to the suspension of Canada’s head coach, Bev Priestman, and the removal of two staff members from the team. The spying scandal sparked widespread condemnation and investigations by both Canada Soccer and FIFA, with one of the implicated staff members receiving an eight-month suspended jail sentence in France.
On the field, New Zealand initially shocked Canada with an early goal in the 13th minute, Mackenzie Barry finding the back of the net. But Canada, despite the controversy swirling around them, showcased their dominance and equalized in stoppage time of the first half through Cloe Lacasse. Canada sealed their win with a goal from Evelyne Viens in the 79th minute, securing a hard-fought victory in a match marked by extraordinary off-field drama.
