Spain Continues Winning Ways Against Ukraine in Antalya
ANTALYA, Turkey – Spain’s women’s national team secured a 3-1 victory over Ukraine on Saturday in Antalya, Turkey, continuing their strong start to qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The match, played in Antalya due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, saw goals from Edna Imade, Lucía Corrales, and Vicky López for Spain, while Olga Ovdiychuk scored the lone goal for the hosts. This win keeps Spain in contention for a top spot in Group A3 alongside England.
A Match Played in Challenging Circumstances
The game took place against a backdrop of geopolitical tension. Ukraine is currently playing its “home” matches in Antalya as a result of the Russian invasion, creating a somber atmosphere. Adding to the complexity, recent missile launches by Iran towards Turkish lands raised security concerns, leading to a late decision by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) to proceed with travel. The RFEF confirmed the trip just days before the match, ensuring the game wouldn’t be forfeited and Spain wouldn’t lose crucial qualifying points. The situation underscored the difficulties faced by both teams, with Ukraine playing in exile and Spain navigating regional instability.
Spain Dominates First Half, Takes 2-0 Lead
Despite the external factors, Spain controlled much of the first half. The Spanish side, featuring Barcelona players Alexia Putellas, Vicky López, Clara Serrajordi, and Salma Paralluelo in the starting lineup, consistently pressured the Ukrainian defense. Daria Keliushyk, Ukraine’s goalkeeper, proved to be a key figure, making several vital saves to keep the scoreline manageable. But, she couldn’t prevent Edna Imade from opening the scoring in the 44th minute with a well-placed header. Just moments into added time, Lucía Corrales added a second for Spain with a powerful shot that hit the crossbar before crossing the line, giving Spain a comfortable 2-0 lead at halftime.
Second Half Sees Continued Spanish Pressure and Ukrainian Response
Spain continued to apply pressure in the second half, extending their lead through Vicky López in the 55th minute. Ukraine, however, didn’t grant up entirely. They managed to pull one back in the 76th minute when Olga Ovdiychuk found the back of the net, offering a glimmer of hope for the hosts. Despite the goal, Spain maintained control and saw out the remainder of the match to secure the 3-1 victory.
Lineups and Key Stats
Ukraine: Daria Keliushyk; Maryna Shayniuk (Roksolana Kravchuk, 46′), Yana Kotyk, Lesia Olkhova, Lyubov Shmatko, Daryna Vorontsova (Olha Basanska, 37′); Iryna Podolska, Yana Kalinina (Lidiia Zaborovets, 66′), Anna Petryk (Svitlana Kohut, 66′), Olga Ovdiychuk (Inna Hlushchenko, 83); and Viktoriya Hiryn.
Spain: Misa Rodríguez; Jana, María Méndez (Martina Fernández, 62′), Laia Codina, Lucía Corrales; Vicky López (Inma Gabarro, 63′), Clara Serrajordi, Alexia Putellas (Fiamma Benítez, 46′); Athenea (Ornella Vignola, 77′), Edna Imade and Salma Paralluelo (Eva Navarro, 46′).
Goals: 0-1, 44′ Edna Imade; 0-2, 45+3′ Lucía Corrales; 0-3, 55′ Vicky López; 1-3, 76′ Olga Ovdiychuk.
Referee: Maika Vanderstichel (FRA). Yellow cards were issued to Yana Kotyk (Ukraine) and Jana Fernández (Spain).
What’s Next for Spain?
Spain will look to continue their winning form as they progress through the qualifying campaign for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Their next match is yet to be confirmed, but the team will undoubtedly aim to maintain their position at the top of Group A3. Fans can follow the team’s progress and official updates on the RFEF website and social media channels.
