MADRID (AP) — Spain will defend its Women’s Nations League title amid disappointment for the Spanish national team. lose one of the best players Two days left until the finals.
Aitana Bommatti, three-time Ballon d’Or winner He broke his foot during training on Sunday and will not play in Tuesday’s second leg against Germany in Madrid. team The first leg was tied 0-0. Friday in Germany.
“It’s a big loss,” Spain coach Sonia Bermudez said on Monday. “Yesterday the atmosphere was a bit depressed because it’s hard when a teammate is injured. I hope she recovers as soon as possible. I know that the team is fine and has all the support in the world. I would like to dedicate the victory to those who were injured. Aitana would have liked to have gone to the final with us, but we have to prioritize the health of our players.”
Bommatti landed awkwardly in an accidental collision during training, and tests determined the midfielder had suffered a fractured left fibula.
Spain captain Irene Paredes said: “It’s depressing to have Aitana absent, because no one likes to see a teammate injured and suffering.” “But we are going to move forward. We have other players and everyone can contribute.”
Former Spain captain Bermudez said whoever he chooses to replace Bommatti will be able to keep the team playing at a high level.
“Every one of our 24 players is more than ready,” she said. “The good thing is that the team is very versatile. The players interpret the game well in different positions, so we have multiple options.”
Bermudez, who took over the team in August as a replacement for Montse Tomé, is aiming for his first title as national team manager.
Spain has reached the finals in the past four major tournaments. They defeated England in the 2023 Women’s World Cup and topped France in the 2024 Women’s Nations League. Lost to England in penalty shootout euro 2025 final In July.
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