WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND (AP) – With three goals in four minutes in the middle of a lopsided first-half yesterday, Spain shattered Costa Rica’s resistance, created the foundation of a resounding 3-0 win and sent a warning to rivals at the Women’s World Cup.
Speculation that Spain was a team weakened by injuries was misleading. They had more than 80 per cent of possession by halftime, 12 corners, 15 shots on goal and had put to rest any concerns over injured players left behind.
Two-time Ballon d’Or-winner Alexis Putellas started on the bench, wasn’t needed until the 77th minute, and went on to a rousing ovation after her long injury battle.
Though they attacked relentlessly, Spain needed 22 minutes until its opened the scoring, an own goal. Aitana Bonmati cut the ball back across goal from the left and Valeria del Campo, attempting to clear, sliced the ball into her own net.
Bonmati scored herself a minute later, striking the ball hard and low from the edge of the box. Two minutes later, Esther Gonzalez was on hand to add the third.
