Last Friday night, the Spain women’s team showcased a remarkable comeback against Belgium in their first game since the controversial trial involving Luis Rubiales. Despite being behind 2-0, Spain managed to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory in Valencia. The absence of Jenni Hermoso, who was once again omitted from the squad by coach Montse Tome, did not deter the team’s determination to succeed. However, Hermoso’s presence lingered in the minds of many supporters, including a woman and her daughter who attended the match to show their support for the player.
The trial involving Rubiales, former president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), shed light on the lack of respect towards Hermoso and her teammates, dating back to before the World Cup. The court found Rubiales guilty of sexual assault for kissing Hermoso during the World Cup final and imposed a significant fine on him. While Rubiales plans to appeal the decision, the trial exposed the RFEF’s disregard for the well-being of its female players.
Despite the victory on the pitch, Spain’s performance in the UEFA Nations League game against Belgium was not at its best. A mistake by team captain Irene Paredes led to Belgium’s opening goal, highlighting the team’s vulnerabilities. Nevertheless, the players displayed remarkable resilience and teamwork to secure the win.
The recent election of Rafael Louzan as RFEF president has sparked hopes of a new era characterized by transparency and inclusivity. However, many within the women’s football community in Spain believe that the fight for equality and respect is far from over.
Following the World Cup final, calls for reform echoed throughout Spanish society and football. While FIFA suspended Rubiales, the momentum for change within the RFEF began to wane. The appointment of Pedro Rocha as Rubiales’ successor led to changes within the federation, including the dismissal of key figures associated with the previous regime. However, challenges persisted, including administrative errors that resulted in players missing crucial games.
The trial exposed the failures of the federation to protect its players, particularly Hermoso, who faced isolation and lack of support. Efforts to implement structural changes were hindered by political and legal struggles, impeding progress in women’s football development.
Despite some positive steps, such as the appointment of Reyes Bellver as the new director of women’s football, the road to equality remains long. The signing of a new convention agreement between Liga F and FUTPRO aimed to enhance player protection and mental health initiatives, but issues such as low wages and lack of resources persist.
The RFEF’s reassurances of a new era under Louzan’s leadership are met with skepticism by some, who question the commitment to real change. The continuous absence of Hermoso from the squad and unresolved issues within the federation underscore the ongoing challenges faced by the women’s team.
As Spain’s women’s team strives for success on the field, the need for structural reforms and unwavering support from the federation remains paramount. The guilty verdict in Rubiales’ trial may mark a turning point, but the journey towards equality and respect in women’s football is far from over.
