MADRID, Aug. 11 (EUROPE PRESS)
The Spanish national team started the Women's U20 World Cup in Costa Rica with a hard-fought draw (0-0) against Brazil in a match where the Brazilians, one of the main favorites for the title, had the best chances but encountered a tough Spanish defense.
In the first half, the Brazilians had the best chances, even forcing goalkeeper Adriana Nanclares to intervene, who showed great confidence in dealing with the danger Brazil posed from the wings.
The Spanish team grew into the game, and in the second half, they shook off Brazilian dominance, creating a lot of danger with crosses that didn't result in shots on goal. The most dangerous opportunity fell to Clara Pinedo in injury time, who had a clear chance in the small area after a poor clearance from a center-back, but the Athletic player sent it wide.
Thus, the national team starts off with a point against the strongest opponent in their group, thanks to a solid defensive performance, although they lacked attacking threat despite having players like Salma Paralluelo, the new signing for FC Barcelona Femení.
Spain, which dreams of repeating or improving on their achievement in the 2018 edition when they were runners-up, sets no limits for this World Cup, where their next challenges will be against the host, Costa Rica, and Australia in an attempt to advance from the group stage.