UEFA is gearing up for the 2027 World Cup, as England and Spain sparred for one of four automatic berths at this week’s Women’s European Qualifiers.
England landed the first blow against reigning champion Spain on Tuesday. The Lionesses defeated their continental rival 1-0 behind a Lauren Hemp strike to sit atop the league stage’s Group A4.
"Against Spain, you need to defend as a team really well, because their individual qualities are so high," said Lionesses manager Sarina Wiegman. "We tried to annoy them a little bit and let them make mistakes."
"Everybody knows you can't go toe-to-toe with Spain for possession," added England midfielder Keira Walsh. "Our plan was to sit in a low block and when we had a chance, go forward. They had chances at the end but they're an unbelievable team."
How UEFA Women's European Qualifiers Set the World Cup Field
The Women's European Qualifiers run through December 2026, determining which European teams compete in the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. However, the tournament also impacts promotion and relegation ahead of the UEFA Women's Nations League, kicking off in 2027.
Four-group League A features Europe’s Top 16 teams — with each group’s winner earning a direct path to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
League A’s remaining 12 teams advance to end-of-year playoffs fielding UEFA’s seven additional berths, with second- and third-place finishers facing lower-ranked nations via top seeding.
Tuesday’s other UEFA Qualifying winners include Denmark, the Netherlands, and Germany, with three league-stage matchdays to go.
How to Watch European Teams at UEFA World Cup Qualifiers
UEFA Women's European Qualifiers return on Saturday, as England takes on Iceland at 12:30 PM GMT on ITVX in the UK.
Group A's Saturday lineup also features Denmark vs Italy, France vs Netherlands, and Austria vs Germany. See full schedule at UEFA.com.
