The leap, when it happened for Spain, was both sudden and significant, and now the sky seems to be the limit. La Roja arrived at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ comfortable in the knowledge that they had an elite squad, albeit with the doubts that come with never having come close to landing a major title at senior level. However, since going all the way at Australia & New Zealand 2023, the team currently led by Montse Tome have become almost unstoppable and, despite never having previously participated in the Olympics, have to be considered contenders for gold.

Spain secured their place in Paris thanks to their UEFA Women’s Nations League triumph, where they outclassed several of the continent’s big hitters, including the Netherlands in the semi-finals and France in the title match. Perhaps Tome’s biggest headache will be deciding on which 18 players to call up, given that none of the World Cup squad have left the scene, while new names, such as teen sensation Vicky Lopez, are also vying for inclusion.

La Roja will arrive with many of its star players in imperious form, especially Aitana Bonmati, winner of The Best FIFA Women’s Player 2023 and a central figure in Barcelona’s Champions League final victory over Lyon. Other members of the Spanish contingent likely to dazzle in Paris are Alexia Putellas, Jenni Hermoso, Irene Paredes and Salma Paralluelo.

Coach: Montse Tome

Tome took over the reins from Jorge Vilda following last year’s Women’s World Cup campaign. The 42-year-old, a former Spain international midfielder, has helped La Roja build on that momentum by steering her charges to the Nations League title and with it qualification for the Olympic Games.

“We’re happy (with Tome) and the results are coming.” said Olga Carmona, scorer of the winning goal in the World Cup final against England. “We know how we want to play.”

Indeed, Spain have predominantly continued with the 4-3-3 formation which brought so much success at Australia & New Zealand 2023. Tome has made modifications at different times, however, altering tactics and utilising her players in new roles. This flexibility could be key as La Roja aim overcome a variety of challenges at Paris 2024.