England and Spain Face Off in Women's World Cup Qualifiers
England and Spain are set to meet again on Tuesday night at Wembley, this time in the qualifiers for the Women’s World Cup. The last time they faced each other was in the final of Euro 2025, which took place just eight-and-a-half months ago. Despite the short gap, Spain has undergone significant changes with a new head coach and a fresh crop of young players.\n## Spain's New Look and Unbeaten Streak \\[Sonia Bermúdez, who replaced Montse Tomé, has already led Spain to the Nations League title. Since the Euros, Spain has been unbeaten, with five wins and a draw in six matches. England, on the other hand, is still adjusting to some key absences and injuries.]\\ Sarina Wiegman, the England head coach, noted that while Spain has some new faces, their playing style remains the same. They are known for their dynamic and possession-based approach, both in attack and defense. \\\ Spain's Ones-to-Watch \\\ Fiamma Benítez, a 21-year-old midfielder from Atlético Madrid, has been making waves with her impressive performances. She has contributed seven goals in the Champions League this season, more than any other player whose team did not reach the quarter-finals. Her vision and ability to find space in the penalty area have made her a valuable asset off the bench. \\\ Vicky López, a young Barcelona winger, has also become a regular starter after being a late substitute in the Euro 2025 final. \\\ Central Striker Dilemma \\\ Esther González, who recently returned from maternity leave, and Edna Imade, who impressed with goals in recent matches, are both options for the central striker position. Salma Paralluelo from Barcelona is another potential choice. \\\ Key Absences \\\ Aitana Bonmatí, the Ballon d’Or winner, is still out with a broken leg, and Laia Aleixandri, a former Manchester City centre-back, is recovering from an ACL injury. \\\ England's Lineup Changes \\\ Leah Williamson, England's captain, is an injury doubt due to a hamstring issue. However, she has been training with the team and is making progress. \\\ Ella Toone is out injured, and Jess Park is likely to start in her place. The attack will likely Alessia Russo, Lauren James, and Lauren Hemp. \\\ Keira Walsh is set to win her 100th cap, and Wiegman praised her for her vision and game understanding. \\\ Key Takeaways \\\ - Spain, under new head coach Sonia Bermúdez, has a fresh look with emerging young players. \\\ - Spain is unbeaten since the Euros, with five wins and a draw in six matches. \\\ - England will have to make at least one change to their starting lineup due to Ella Toone's injury. \\\ - Leah Williamson, England's captain, is an injury doubt but is making progress. \\\ - Keira Walsh is set to win her 100th cap and is a key player for England. \\\ Source: OneFootball (https://onefootball.com/en/news/much-changed-spain-will-still-test-england-in-first-meeting-since-euro-2025-final-42705325)
— Editorial Team
