England Women Left to Secure World Cup Berth via Play-Offs

England Women Left to Secure World Cup Berth via Play Offs
Jess Carter of England scores her teams first goal during the FIFA Womens World Cup 2027 Qualifier match with Ukraine Photo by Nathan StirkGetty Images

England Women defeated Ukraine at the Hill Dickinson Stadium but missed out on automatic qualification for the World Cup as Spain topped the group.

Although England cruised to victory over Ukraine in front of over 26,000 fans, they were also dependent on Iceland denying Spain all three points, which they were unable to do and therefore await the play-off draw on 18 June.

Jess Carter headed the Lionesses in front from a cross to the back post by Lauren James.

A Lauren Hemp strike was pushed away by goalkeeper Kateryna Boklach, but Sarina Wiegman’s side grabbed their second when Keira Walsh fed Alessia Russo, who crossed for Georgia Stanway to slide in at the far post.

Hemp won a free kick on the edge of the box midway through the second half, and Beth Mead whipped it in just inside the far post to make it 3-0.

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