Alessia Russo scored the only goal to give England a 1-0 win over Iceland on Saturday and a fourth win in as many qualifying matches for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
The Arsenal striker struck a precise low shot into the far corner midway through the first half in Reykjavik, following an excellent burst from Lauren Hemp, who provided the pass for Russo.
The Lionesses were also indebted to goalkeeper Hannah Hampton for three crucial saves in the second half, which preserved England’s 100 percent record and kept them three points ahead of Spain.
Two-time European champions England moved above Spain in Group A3 earlier this week after beating the World Cup holders 1-0 at Wembley. Only the top team will automatically advance to the tournament in Brazil next year.
«The most important thing is that we have played four and have 12 points. No game is easy, we are not taking anything for granted and we are in a very good position,» said England coach Sarina Wiegman. ITV.
«We know how good Spain is, and so do Ukraine. I am happy with six points (from the two games this week). The players are going back to very important games with their clubs and then we go again in June.»
France is playing catch-up against the Netherlands in group A2 after a 1-1 draw in Auxerre. France took the lead late in the first half through Marie-Antoinette Katoto, but the Dutch leveled when Wieke Kaptein scored with fourteen minutes to play.
The Netherlands are at the top with eight points, after beating France 2-1 at home on Tuesday. The Blues are a point behind, while the Republic of Ireland fought their way back into contention this week with two wins over Poland.
Germany dropped the first points in Group A4 after a 0-0 draw against neighboring country Austria. Norway are just a point behind after Signe Gaupset grabbed an injury-time winner in a 3-2 win in Slovenia.
Leaders Denmark were held to 0-0 at home by Italy in Group A1, allowing Sweden to close to within a point after a 1-0 win over Serbia.
Published on April 19, 2026
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/peo-quince-linen-clothing-review-tout-a6dd89666c5b492ab4321528a87516d2.jpg?w=238&resize=238,178&ssl=1)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/justin-bieber-parents-041626-803deadc55444423bf7b0a525a0a552f.jpg?w=238&resize=238,178&ssl=1)