SEVILLE, Spain, Feb 27 (AFP): Reigning world champions Spain can claim another title on Wednesday when they face France in the final of the inaugural UEFA Women's Nations League, while the Netherlands and Germany meet to decide who will join them in qualifying for the Paris Olympics.
Spain's World Cup triumph in Sydney last August ended up being somewhat overshadowed by Spanish football federation boss Luis Rubiales's forced kiss on midfielder Jenni Hermoso after the final against England.
Rubiales recently had a three-year ban from football upheld by FIFA and is also set to go in trial over the kiss, while the Spain team -- led by Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati -- have tried to keep the focus on football. Under new coach Montse Tome, Spain comfortably topped their Nations League group ahead of Italy, Sweden and Switzerland, and then defeated the Netherlands 3-0 in Seville in last Friday's semi-final.
Winning through to the final also allowed them to take one of two qualifying spots open to European nations for the women's football tournament at the Olympics. It is the first time they have qualified for the Games.
However, star Barcelona midfielder Bonmati believes Spain's World Cup success has not had the hoped-for impact on the women's game in the country.
"Unfortunately I can't say a lot of things have changed," Bonmati said in an interview with French sports daily L'Equipe.
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