Sonia Bermúdez: “There Are No Friendlies, and We Will Go Out to Win”
Two of the leading powers in international football will go head-to-head in Washington, D.C., this Saturday. Audi Field will host the first of two high-intensity clashes between Spain and the United States, giving both teams an opportunity to begin their preparations for the FIFA World Cup, which will take place in Brazil in June and July. Just over 24 hours before kick-off, Sonia Bermúdez spoke to the media in Washington.
The development of Spanish women’s football: “We have made great strides at club level and within the regional football federations. The standard of Spanish football in the youth categories is very high. Now we have the opportunity to see the two best teams in the world face each other twice, and I hope we can all enjoy it.”
A special match against the United States: “I was fortunate enough to come and play for Western New York Flash in 2014. It was an incredible experience, although the game was very different from the football we played in Spain. The more physical, transition-based style is what defines the United States. It is special for me to face this country as a head coach, and I am sure we will see some excellent matches that will help us prepare for the World Cup.”
The goalkeeping position: “Misa, Nanclares and Eunate are all in perfect condition to play. We will decide between today and tomorrow who starts the first match, but the good thing is that all three give us complete confidence, and we have two matches ahead of us.”
A demanding test: “The context is obviously different from competitive football. We have two matches in which we want to try different approaches and give all the players an opportunity, but I am sure that neither team sees these as friendlies. We will go out to win.”
On the United States: “There are several very strong teams, and the United States are among the favourites. Winning a World Cup is extremely difficult; one bad day and you are out. It tests you every single day, and I would not rule out any team ahead of the World Cup.”
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