Slick Russia see off Spain
Thursday, November 11, 2004
Article summary
Spain's hopes of adding the world crown to their European one took a blow as they were beaten 4-1 by Russia.
Article body
Dark horses
The Russians were losing semi-finalists in the UEFA European Women's Championship but were rated as dark horses in Thailand such is the speed of the development of the female game in the country. Valentin Grishin's side simply proved too hot for Spain on a scorching day and can look forward with confidence to Saturday's meeting with the United States. The Americans beat the Korean Republic, the Iberians' next opponents on Sunday, 3-0 in the opening game of their title defence today.
Nine finalists
Spain coach Ignacio Quereda started with nine of the team that defeated the mighty Germany 2-1 in August, including goalscorers Jade and Iraia. However, it was Elena Terekhova who continued her run of scoring with the opener on ten minutes. The FC Energy Voronezh striker scored twice in Finland in the summer and five times in the recent first qualifying round mini-tournament for next year's European Championship.
Substitute strikes
The Spanish hit back midway through the half through Nuria, yet it was Russia who went in at half-time in the ascendancy thanks to Ekaterina Sochneva's 36th-minute strike. The game continued to ebb and flow throughout the second period until Olga Petrova, having only come on seven minutes earlier, scored in the 76th minute. An own goal from Spain defender Zurine two minutes from time completed a fine day for Russia, who take on the US on Sunday.
Saturday fixtures
Europe's other contenders, Germany and Italy, return to action on Saturday. Fresh from beating hosts Thailand 6-0, Germany play Australia in Suphachalasai knowing victory could take them through Group A, where Canada also meet Thailand. In Group B, Italy will look to bounce back from losing to Brazil when they take on China in Chiang Mai, as the South American side encounter Nigeria.
