England edges Spain 1-0 in Womens World Cup 2027 qualifying match

England Earns Crucial Win Over Spain at Wembley Stadium

Lauren Hemp scored the only goal of the game for England, securing a 1-0 victory over defending champions Spain at Wembley Stadium in London on Tuesday. The win moves England to the top of Group A3, one step closer to qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

The match marked the first time the teams faced each other since last year’s European Championship final, where England won in a penalty shootout. Spain threatened an equalizer in the first half, but Hemp’s goal gave England the lead after just three minutes. The goal was set up by Alessia Russo, who received a pass from Lucy Bronze.

Hemp had several chances to double England’s lead, including a close-range effort that clipped the post in the 19th minute. Hannah Hampton made crucial saves for England at the halfway point, denying Patricia Guijarro and preserving the lead. Spain continued to press in the second half, but England held firm until the final minutes.

In other Group A3 matches, Norway thrashed Slovenia 5-0, while Germany remained unbeaten with a 5-1 victory over Austria. France lost its leaders’ spot after going down 2-1 to the Netherlands, who are now in first place. Ireland recorded a 3-2 away win over Poland, and Denmark took control of Group A1 with a last-gasp 2-1 victory over Sweden.

The match also marked several milestones for England players, including Keira Walsh’s 100th cap and an international retirement ceremony honoring goalkeeper Mary Earps.

Source: Al Jazeera