FIFA Women’s World Cup Final 2023: How Spain won the tactical battles to defeat the Lionesses – tactical analysis

After a summer of football, the FIFA Womens World Cup came to a close on Sunday as the final played out at Sydneys Stadium Australia. The two teams facing off in this years final were a Spain team subject to constant rumours of unrest, up against European Champions, England who endured setbacks of their own throughout the tournament. 

A first-half goal from Real Madrids Olga Carmona was enough to ensure that La Roja emerged victorious from a game they mostly dominated. Jorge Vildas side appeared prepared for anything England would throw at them. Although it is important to say that the Lionesses did carve out some opportunities but were unable to make them count. 

This tactical analysis will dissect the tactics of Spain and England and assess how the game played out. We will provide an analysis of how La Roja were crowned World Champions and why the Lionesses fell at the final hurdle. 

Lineups

Spain lined up in their usual 4-3-3 formation with Cata Coll in goal and a back four of former Manchester United player Ona Battle at right back, the two centre backs being Paredes and Codina and Olga Carmona at left-back. The midfield consisted of Teresa Abelleira, Jennifer Hermoso and Aitana Bonmatí. The front three saw Salma Paralluelo get the nod to start after her super performance from the bench against Sweden, whilst Mariona Caldentey and Alba Redondo lined up on either side of her. 

Sarina Wiegman opted for an unchanged side from the semi-final against Australia. Mary Earps in goal, a back three of Chelsea teammates Jess Carter and Millie Bright alongside Alex Greenwood. Lucy Bronze and Rachel Daly as wing-backs with a midfield trio of Keira Walsh in the pivot role, with Georgia Stanway and Ella Toone given more licence to get forward to support the front two of Alessia Russo and Lauren Hemp. The only change for England came in the form of Lauren James being able for selection after serving her two-match suspension  the Chelsea starlet started the game on the bench.