With 3-0 win in wintry Wellington, Spain sets the standard at Women’s World Cup

By STEVE McMORRAN
AP Sports Writer

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — With three goals in four minutes in the middle of a lopsided first half, Spain shattered Costa Rica’s resistance and created the foundation of a resounding 3-0 win that sent a warning to rivals at the Women’s World Cup. Speculation that Spain was a team weakened by injuries was misleading. They had more than 80% of possession by halftime, 12 corners, 15 shots on goal and had put to rest any concerns over injured players left behind. Spain began its campaign with a performance that demanded attention and brightened a bitter winter’s night in Wellington.