Aitana Bonmatí has told ESPN that Spain learned to compete better physically after losing to England in the quarterfinal of Euro 2022 as the two teams prepare to battle for a place in the UEFA Women’s Nations League final four on Tuesday.
Holders Spain lead England at the top of League A Group 3 by two points heading into the final decisive group game this week, which will take place at RCDE Stadium in Barcelona.
The two teams have met twice since that quarterfinal three years ago, which England won, with Spain gaining revenge in the World Cup final a year later and England winning when the teams met at Wembley in February.
“We had a defeat against England in the quarterfinal at the last Euros,” Spain midfielder Bonmatí told ESPN. “I think we deserved better in that match. We did a great match, but at the end they beat us.
“And we grew up a lot as a team since this match. After that we won the World Cup, we won the Nations League and we grew up a lot as a team, specifically physically.
“I think Spain has always had the talent and the technique. But years ago we couldn’t compete with teams like England or USA, on a physical level. We can compete now.”
Spain will reach the final four, which won’t take place until October, by avoiding defeat against England, while the Lionesses must…
