Photo: Richard Callis / SPP
It came down to the wire, but Spain is going to the semifinals of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. They will face the winner of Sweden and Japan, who play on Friday at 3:30 a.m. ET.
Spain 2, Netherlands 1 (aet)
The Big Story: Spain booked a spot in the World Cup semifinals for the first time when 19-year-old Salma Paralluelo scored on a solo effort in the second extra time period to eliminate the Netherlands. The winner came moments after Lineth Beerensteyn misfired on a golden opportunity at the other end. It was at least the third time Beerensteyn entered the Spanish box with a chance to score, but came up empty. After the third chance, the ensuing goal kick was won in midfield by Jenni Hermosso who turned and beat two Dutch defenders with the outlet ball to Paralluelo, who did the rest of the work.
Spain forged ahead in the 81st minute when Mariona Caldentey narrowly converted a penalty that kissed the left post before heading in. But the Netherlands did not go quietly. Stefanie Van Der…
