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.

More from the world of women’s football

Discover the latest issue of Her Goal Magazine, featuring Manchester City's Barclays WSL triumph, a FREE Alessia Russo Lionesses poster, Cloé Lacasse's exclusive diary, Melanie Leupolz, Rikke Sevecke and much more from across the women's game.

Magazine cover: celebrating women’s football team with trophy; headline 'FIRST-CLASS CITYZENS'; blue sticker for a free Alessia Russo poster.

Packed with exclusive interviews, player features, posters, quizzes and in-depth stories from across women’s football — including players, clubs and articles just like the one you’re reading here.

Also available from WHSmith, Morrisons, Asda, Waitrose, TG Jones and independent newsagents.

Shopping Basket