Spain Strikes Twice in 14 Minutes, Beats the US 2-0 Behind a Heroic Nanclares

Fourteen minutes. That's all Spain needed to all but settle the match in Washington, a showdown between the top two teams in the women's world rankings. The final score, 2-0 in Spain's favor, made clear that the early blow outweighed anything the United States could muster in response.

The first goal came in a flash. In the 3rd minute, Patri Guijarro unleashed one of those shots you remember: a clean strike from well outside the box that left American goalkeeper Claudia Dickey with no chance. There was no deflection, no scramble, just pure composure and a clinical finish from distance.

The second goal, just a few minutes later, had more to do with a breakdown in the home side's defense. Eva Navarro found herself unmarked after a cross from Salma Paralluelo down the left flank and finished with a volley to make it 2-0. Two goals, fourteen minutes, and the United States was already fighting an uphill battle in front of its own fans.

Some context is worth noting: not every star was on the field. Spain played without Aitana Bonmatí, a three-time Ballon d'Or winner, while the United States was missing defenders Naomi Girma and Emily Sonnett. That absence in the home side's back line showed, especially in the opening minutes, when the US defense looked shakier than usual.

Nanclares, the standout performer between the posts

But if there's one name that defined Spain's win, it's Adriana Nanclares. The goalkeeper had a heroic afternoon: first with a spectacular save to tip a long-range effort from Sophia Wilson onto the crossbar, and then, in the second half, by stopping a penalty kick from Lily Yohannes, driven low to her left, that had been awarded after a VAR review.

The United States had its moments. Alyssa Thompson beat Nanclares on an individual play, though a Spanish defender arrived in time to block the shot. In the second half, with Trinity Rodman growing more influential down the left, the home team appeared to have found the back of the net through Sophia Wilson, but the goal was disallowed for offside after a video review.

This match was only the first of two meetings between the reigning world champion and the reigning Olympic champion, two teams that together have claimed the last three world titles. The game offered an intriguing preview of what might be in store at the next World Cup, even with key pieces still missing from both sides. The rematch comes Tuesday night near Philadelphia, where the United States will look to turn the tables.