Spain and Sweden women's footballers stage 'It's over' protest

Spain won the Nations League clash in Gothenburg 3-2 when Mariona Caldentey converted a penalty

Gothenburg (Sweden) (AFP) – Spain's world champions and their Swedish opponents on Friday held up a banner with the slogan "It's over" in protest over the sexism scandal which has engulfed the Spanish football federation.

Spain won the Nations League clash in Gothenburg 3-2 when Mariona Caldentey converted a penalty six minutes into added time.

The pre-match protest came as the Spain team returned to action for the first time since lifting the World Cup where former federation chief Luis Rubiales kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips.

The 22 players held up the banner bearing the Spanish phrase "Se Acabo" ("It's over") adding that the struggle of the players against chauvinism and sexual assault was "the global fight" for equality between men and women.

Just before kick-off in Friday's Nations League game, the Spanish women also raised their fists to reveal wristbands which carried words of protest and support.

Most carried the same "Se Acabo" message, while others simply wrote "Jenni" or the number 10 of Hermoso's shirt.

Hermoso was not called up for the game by new coach Montse Tome to "protect her".

Nine of the 23 world champions who refused to return to the team since the Rubiales scandal broke, demanding profound changes within the Spanish Football Federation, finally started at kick-off on Friday.

"It's a very positive victory that manages to make you forget the days we've had," said Tome.

"It also means that we have players with incredible talent. They love what they do. What they know how to do is play soccer, and we have to make them feel they can really concentrate on the game."

Magdalena Eriksson gave the hosts a 23rd minute lead. Athenea del Castillo levelled seven minutes before half time. Eva Navarro put Spain ahead in the 77th minute but Lina Hurtig replied for Sweden. Amanda Ilestedt of Sweden was shown a straight red card five minutes into added time conceding the penalty that Caldentey converted.

"It's been a difficult few days for all of us, but we've shown that we're a real team who want to represent our country and fight to the end," said Real Madrid striker Del Castillo. "That's what counts. I hope that the changes underway will continue and that everything will go well."

"We were tired and didn't sleep well over the last few days, but I'm satisfied with the work we've done."