Sparta Prague secured a 2-0 victory over Horní Heršpice Women in the seventh round of the 1. liga, moving further clear in second place. The visitors had already established themselves as genuine contenders this season, and a result like this reinforces that position. Horní Heršpice remain winless after seven matches, a situation that will only deepen their concerns.
And here's the thing about this match — the turning point came not from a moment of brilliance, but from a mistake. L. French turned the ball into her own net in the 63rd minute, and that single error shifted the balance entirely. By then, Sparta Prague had been patient, probing for an opening that eventually materialised.
M. Khyrova doubled the advantage in the 78th minute, and this time it was a proper finish. She had waited for the right moment, and when it came, she took it. The home side had no answer to the pressure, and the gap on the scoreboard reflected the reality of the game.
Discipline became a concern for both sides as the match progressed. Horní Heršpice saw H. Bergford sent off in the 90th minute plus three, joining Malatova, Petryk, and Peskova on the yellow card list. Sparta Prague were not exempt either, with Hlavacova, Černá, and Kočendova all booked.
The coaching staffs made their moves in the second half. Elmore and Nechutova came on together at the interval, while Retkesova and Ospeck were introduced after the hour mark. Petryk's replacement at 66 minutes was followed by Kovalikova and Kočendova arriving together in the 85th minute — all attempts to shift the momentum.
To be fair, this result was never really in doubt. Horní Heršpice have now lost seven consecutive matches, having been beaten 0-7 by Baník Ostrava and 0-9 by Slavia Prague in recent weeks. Their form has been difficult to comprehend, and this defeat extends that barren spell.
By then, Sparta Prague's position was solid. Five wins from seven games, fifteen points, and only two defeats. They have held every card in their hand now, and the gap between them and those chasing looks increasingly wide.
