Alessia Russo scored the only goal to earn England a 1-0 victory in Iceland on Saturday and a fourth win in as many 2027 Women’s World Cup qualifying games.
The Arsenal striker picked out the far corner with a precise low shot midway through the first half in Reykjavik after an excellent burst from Lauren Hemp, who supplied 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 clear of Spain.
Two-time European champion England moved above Spain in Group A3 earlier in the week after beating the World Cup holders 1-0 at Wembley. Only the top team progresses automatically 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 don’t take anything for granted and we’re in a really good position,” England boss Sarina Wiegman told ITV.
“We know how good Spain are, and Ukraine too. I am happy with six points (from this week’s two fixtures). The players go back to very important games with their clubs and then we go again in June.”
France is playing catch-up to 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 levelled when Wieke Kaptein scored with 14 minutes to play.
The Netherlands is top on eight points, having beaten France 2-1 at home on Tuesday. Les Blues are a point behind, while the Republic of Ireland has fought its way back into contention with two wins over Poland this week.
Germany dropped its first points in Group A4 after drawing 0-0 away to neighbour Austria. Norway is just a point behind after Signe Gaupset grabbed a stoppage-time winner in a 3-2 victory in Slovenia.
Leader Denmark was held 0-0 at home by Italy in Group A1, which allowed Sweden to close to within a point after a 1-0 win over Serbia.
Published on Apr 19, 2026