Spain run away with victory against Finland after surprising early opener.

By Connor Wagner

Spain kicked off their 2022 Women's European Championship campaign with a 4-1 victory over Finland in their Group B clash at Stadium MK Friday evening.

"Spain womens national team 20181113" By EL Loko, Licensed under CC BY 4.0

After just 49 seconds, a defensive error by Spain allowed Linda Sallstrom to score the opener. Westerlund released the forward behind the Spain defence, taking out the entire line. Sallstrom held her nerve and clipped a finish over Panos and into the back of the net. A perfect start for Signeul's team.

Spain turned to captain Irene Paredes for an equaliser in the 26th minute. Caldentey floated a perfect delivery into the box for Paredes to attack and score. It had been coming after constant waves of attacks from the Spanish side.

41st minute and Spain had turned the tie around after, yet another header beat Korpela. Leon was allowed to press forward down the left flank and delivered a powerful cross into the middle. Bonmati was able to make a late run and with a free header glanced her effort away from Korpela into the top-right corner.

Spain stayed on top going into the second half and wrapped the game up with 15 minutes left to go. Leon sent another pinpoint cross from the right, which only needed a touch from Garcia to glance her effort into the bottom-right corner past Korpela.

The final nail in Finland’s coffin came 5 minutes into added time where Spain added another to their goal tally. This time Caldentey got herself onto the scoresheet. Pikkujamsa brought down Cardona with a poor challenge in the box and Caldentey fired high into the corner, Korpela with no chance.

The icing on the cake to Spain’s fine performance. They sit top of group B with Germany and Denmark to play later this evening. Spain will take on Germany Tuesday to see if they can go clear at the top of Group B.