England’s Lionesses face a defining test in their Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifying campaign this evening as they travel to the Estadi Mallorca Son Moix to take on Spain.
With qualification within touching distance, Sarina Wiegman’s side know that a positive result on Spanish soil would secure their place at the tournament in Brazil.
Standing in their way, however, are the reigning world champions, an immensely talented Spain side strengthened by the return of one of the game’s elite performers.
Fierce Rivalries Renewed
Few rivalries in international women’s football carry the intensity and recent history of England vs Spain. Their meetings on the biggest stages have consistently delivered drama and defining moments.
In the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final, Spain edged England 1-0 to lift the trophy, with Olga Carmona scoring the decisive goal in Sydney.
England responded two years later in the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 Final, where a tense 1-1 draw was ultimately settled by penalties, with the Lionesses holding their nerve to win 3-1 and be crowned European champions.
Their rivalry also produced one of the standout matches of UEFA Women’s EURO 2022, when England came from behind to defeat Spain 2-1 after extra time. Ella Toone scored a late equaliser to force extra time before Georgia Stanway fired home a stunning long-range winner.
With silverware, pride, and momentum having swung between the two sides, this latest encounter adds another compelling chapter to a rivalry that continues to define the modern women’s game.
Team News
England
England arrive with several key absentees, most notably captain Leah Williamson, who misses out due to a hamstring injury.
Her absence removes not only a defensive cornerstone but also a vocal leader at the back. The Lionesses are also without Taylor Hinds, Khiara Keating, who remains in concussion protocols, and Ellie Roebuck, who has withdrawn due to a shoulder injury.
There is, however, a timely boost with the return of Ella Toone, who is back in contention after recovering from a hip issue and could play an important role in the England midfield.
Spain
Spain are handed a significant lift with the return of Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí, whose presence brings creativity, control, and composure in midfield.
She is expected to feature alongside fellow stars such as Alexia Putellas and Clàudia Pina, giving the hosts a formidable attacking and technical edge.
Recent Meetings
The last meeting between the two sides came on April 14th 2026, when England edged a 1-0 victory.
Lauren Hemp struck inside three minutes, finishing from an assist by Alessia Russo, giving the Lionesses a crucial advantage in the qualification race.
Key Battle: Midfield Control
Despite England’s injury setbacks, they have shown resilience and tactical discipline under Sarina Wiegman.
Spain, buoyed by home support and the return of their star midfielder, will aim to impose their possession-based style from the outset.
The midfield contest could define the outcome of this clash. Spain’s technical excellence, led by Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas, will look to dominate possession and dictate tempo.
England, however, possess their own dynamic options, with Georgia Stanway providing energy and drive, while the returning Ella Toone offers creativity between the lines.
With world-class talent on both sides, including Lauren James, Alessia Russo, and Spain’s attacking threats, another closely fought encounter is expected.
Whichever side gains control in this area is likely to take a major step toward victory.
What’s at Stake
The stakes could hardly be higher. England know that a positive result would confirm automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Spain, meanwhile, must respond on home soil to keep their qualification hopes alive heading into the final round of fixtures, adding further pressure to an already high-intensity contest.
Given the history, quality, and stakes involved, this clash has all the ingredients of a classic—one that could shape the path to the 2027 World Cup.
