Women’s World Cup 2023: Spain make history in Australia and New Zealand
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup was a landmark tournament for women’s football. Co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand from 20 July to 20 August, it was the first edition to feature 32 teams. Spain lifted the trophy for the first time after beating England 1–0 in a memorable final in Sydney.
A tournament of firsts
The expanded competition brought together teams from across the world and gave several nations their first taste of the Women’s World Cup. The Republic of Ireland, Morocco, the Philippines, Portugal, Vietnam and Zambia all made their tournament debuts.
Matches were played in nine host cities across the two countries, with large crowds creating an energetic atmosphere throughout the competition. The tournament also set a new attendance record for a Women’s World Cup, reflecting the sport’s growing international reach.
Spain claim the title
Spain’s route to the final included a 2–1 semi-final victory over Sweden. In the final, captain Olga Carmona scored the decisive goal in the 29th minute, striking past England goalkeeper Mary Earps. Spain held on to secure a 1–0 win and become only the second country to win the Women’s World Cup.
The victory was a major achievement for a team known for its technical style and confident possession play. Midfielder Aitana Bonmatí was named the tournament’s best player, while Salma Paralluelo received the Young Player award.
England reach their first final
England’s Lionesses made history by reaching their first Women’s World Cup final. Sarina Wiegman’s side beat co-hosts Australia 3–1 in the semi-final, with goals from Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo.
Although England fell just short in the final, their run built on the momentum of their 2022 European Championship triumph and marked another important step for the national team. Mary Earps was awarded the Golden Glove for her performances in goal.
Surprises and standout performances
The tournament delivered plenty of drama. Defending champions the United States were knocked out by Sweden in the round of 16, losing on penalties after a goalless match. Sweden went on to finish third, beating Australia 2–0 in the play-off.
Japan also impressed with a fast, incisive style of play and reached the quarter-finals. Hinata Miyazawa finished as the tournament’s top scorer, winning the Golden Boot with five goals.
A lasting impact
The 2023 Women’s World Cup showcased the depth of talent in the women’s game and gave new audiences the chance to follow teams from around the world. From Spain’s historic triumph to England’s run to the final, the tournament produced defining moments for players, supporters and the future of women’s football.
Key Questions Answered About the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup
- Who won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup?
- When and where was the 2023 Women’s World Cup held?
- Who did Spain beat in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final?
- What was the score in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final?
- Who won the Golden Boot at the 2023 Women’s World Cup?
- How did England perform at the 2023 Women’s World Cup?
Who won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup?
Spain won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, defeating England 1–0 in the final in Sydney, Australia. Captain Olga Carmona scored the winning goal, securing Spain’s first-ever Women’s World Cup title.
When and where was the 2023 Women’s World Cup held?
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup was held in Australia and New Zealand from 20 July to 20 August 2023. It was the first Women’s World Cup co-hosted by two countries and the first to feature 32 teams, with matches played across nine host cities.
Who did Spain beat in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final?
Spain beat England 1–0 in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final, held in Sydney on 20 August. Captain Olga Carmona scored the decisive goal in the first half, securing Spain’s first Women’s World Cup title.
What was the score in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final?
Spain beat England 1–0 in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final, held in Sydney on 20 August 2023. Spain captain Olga Carmona scored the winning goal in the first half, securing the country’s first Women’s World Cup title.
Who won the Golden Boot at the 2023 Women’s World Cup?
Japan’s Hinata Miyazawa won the Golden Boot at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with five goals. She scored in Japan’s group-stage matches and knockout campaign, helping her side reach the quarter-finals.
How did England perform at the 2023 Women’s World Cup?
England had an impressive run at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, reaching the final for the first time in the team’s history. The Lionesses beat co-hosts Australia 3–1 in the semi-final, but lost 1–0 to Spain in the final, finishing as runners-up. Goalkeeper Mary Earps won the Golden Glove for her performances during the tournament.
Tags: 2023 fifa womens world cup, 32 teams, aitana bonmatí, australia, england, golden boot, golden glove, hinata miyazawa, japan, mary earps, new zealand, olga carmona, salma paralluelo, sarina wiegman, spain, sweden, sydney final, tournament attendance record, womens football, world cup 2023 women's