Jenni Hermoso's Triumphant Return Seals Spain's Win Over Italy

Jenni Hermoso's Triumphant Return Seals Spain's Win Over Italy

Jennifer Hermoso of Spain celebrates with teammates Teresa Abelleira (L) and Athenea del Castillo after scoring the team's first goal during the UEFA Women's Nations League match between Italy and Spain at Stadio Arechi on October 27, 2023 in Salerno, Italy. (Image-Getty)

 In the Nations League match on Friday, Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Italy with a stunning 89th-minute goal from substitute Jenni Hermoso. This marked Hermoso's comeback to the national team following the unsettling kiss controversy involving former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales, which led to his resignation last month.

Hermoso's exclusion from the squad in previous matches against Sweden and Switzerland in September had stirred considerable attention, with coach Montse Tome stating that her decision was aimed at protecting Hermoso. However, with Hermoso's impactful return and game-winning goal against Italy, Tome expressed her delight at having the forward back in the team, emphasizing the positive impact of her presence on the pitch.

Tome highlighted the crucial role played by Hermoso in breaking through Italy's defensive setup, acknowledging the significance of her timely goal that ultimately secured the victory for Spain. Hermoso's goal, scored in the 68th minute after collecting a rebound from Alexia Putellas' shot, marked her 52nd goal for the national team, solidifying her position as the top scorer in the team's history.

Following this crucial win, Spain currently leads in Nations League group four with nine points, ahead of Sweden with six points and Italy with three. They are set to face Switzerland, the bottom-placed team who are yet to secure a point, in their upcoming match on Tuesday. The victory not only solidified Spain's position at the top of the group but also served as a testament to Hermoso's resilience and remarkable performance upon her return to the national squad.