Spanish style wins through

Clinical finishing proved the difference between Spain and Switzerland as the Iberians won the opening game of the 3rd UEFA European Women's Under-19 Championship 3-1 at the Loviisan Keskuskenttä.

Well positioned
Ignacio Quereda's talented Spain side narrowly missed out on the knockout stages in Leipzig last year but are well positioned to advance here in Finland after Jade settled an even and entertaining match as full time approached. Switzerland had been threatening to complete a sterling comeback, Ane's 57th-minute own goal giving them hope after strikes from Miriam and Irune had moved Spain 2-0 in front with four minutes of the second half gone.

Leading scorers
Spain scored more goals in qualifying than any other side, 30, but did not find chances easy to come by in the early stages against a Switzerland side determined to impress having missed out on the 2003 final tournament. Although openings were rare with early Group B supremacy at stake, Spain were the first to capitalise as defender Miriam rose superbly to head in a cross from the right in the 27th minute.

Severe blow
The Spanish then continued to enjoy the majority of the play, although the Swiss were not without their moments as they sought a way back into the match. However, their chances of doing so took a severe blow in the 48th minute as a defensive mix-up freed Irune to finish beautifully with a rasping, rising shot from the edge of the area.

Tactic pays off
Switzerland were forced to commit more players forward in an attempt to salvage a draw, a tactic which paid dividends inside eight minutes. As players from both sides leaped to reach a corner from the right, defender Ane got the final touch and inadvertently headed the ball beyond her goalkeeper Lucia from four metres.

Composed finish
The Swiss sensed their chance, yet Spain continued to press, only to continually fall foul of the assistant referee's flag. However, when Jade finally beat the offside trap, she showed remarkable composure to slot the ball into the corner of Stenia Michel's net having found herself one-on-one with the Switzerland No1.

Hosts beaten
Spain can now seal an early passage to the semi-finals - and the FIFA Under-19 Women's World Championship - by beating Finland on Friday. The hosts lost their opening game 4-0 to a rampant Germany side themselves seeking qualification against Switzerland on the same day.

Most Valuable Player: Lara Dickenmann (Switzerland)
Attendance: 220