England delivered the clear win Sarina Wiegman demanded as the Lionesses powered past Ukraine 6 1 to open their 2027 Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign dominantly.
With only the top team in the group guaranteed automatic qualification, England knew there was little room for error. World champions Spain are expected to be their main challengers, turning every goal into potential leverage in what could become a tight race decided on fine margins.
The first half, however, did not reflect the final scoreline. England controlled 85 percent possession and registered 15 shots before the break but went in level at 0 0. Ukraine, ranked 30 places below them, defended compactly and limited clear openings despite England recording 40 touches inside the opposition box.
Wiegman opted for a slightly experimental lineup. Laura Blindkilde Brown started, Maya Le Tissier featured at right back, and Taylor Hinds continued at left back as England balanced squad rotation with competitive urgency. The back line had limited combined international experience outside captain Leah Williamson, reflecting a broader transitional phase within the squad.
The breakthrough came early in the second half when Alessia Russo struck twice in four minutes, instantly shifting the momentum. Once the defensive lines stretched, England’s quality became evident. Georgia Stanway added a brace of her own, while Jess Park also scored twice to complete an emphatic second half response.
Russo said afterwards that belief never wavered despite the goalless first period. She pointed to improved composure in the final third and sharper decision making once space began to appear. The shift in tempo highlighted England’s ability to adjust tactically within the match.
The fixture was staged in Turkey, as Ukraine are unable to host home matches due to the ongoing war with Russia. Ukraine’s squad faced significant travel challenges ahead of the game, including a lengthy journey to reach the neutral venue.
For England, the focus quickly shifts to maintaining momentum. Spain opened their own campaign with a 3 0 victory over Iceland, keeping early pressure on the Lionesses. Goal difference could become decisive later in the group, particularly with a high profile meeting between England and Spain scheduled for April at Wembley.
Midfielder Georgia Stanway admitted disappointment at conceding a goal, aware that even small defensive lapses may matter in a tightly contested qualification race. England currently sit top of the group on goal difference, but consistency across both results and performances will define their path.
With Iceland next on the schedule, the Lionesses have laid down an early marker. The second half display against Ukraine offered a glimpse of the ruthless edge Wiegman expects, as England aim to combine tactical evolution with attacking efficiency on the road to the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
