England’s hopes of reaching the UEFA Women’s Nations League semi-finals were dashed after a 2-1 defeat to defending champions Spain in Barcelona.
On her 50th cap, Alessia Russo put England ahead with a well-executed finish against the run of play. However, Spain responded strongly, with Clàudia Pina equalizing in the 60th minute and adding a second just ten minutes later to secure her team’s progression to the knockout stages.
The match was a rematch of the 2023 Women’s World Cup Final, where England found themselves defending for much of the first half. Hannah Hampton played a crucial role in keeping the game level early on, making an impressive save just three minutes into the match. From a corner, Esther González got a chance, but Hampton stopped her shot on the line, with Georgia Stanway clearing the ball.
Spain kept up the pressure, forcing England to defend three more corners in the first ten minutes. Hampton was again called into action to deny González, who was attacking the goal.
England had few opportunities to attack in the first half, but the game changed in the 21st minute. Keira Walsh sent a ball through to Russo, who used her pace and strength to get behind the defense and finish past Spain’s goalkeeper Cata Coll, putting England 1-0 ahead.
England began to dominate possession after the goal. Niamh Charles created chances by sending crosses into the box, while Beth Mead delivered a free-kick that Leah Williamson couldn’t quite direct past Coll.
The first half ended with little further action, with Patri Guijarro’s shot going wide.
At halftime, Stanway was substituted for Missy Bo Kearns, who made her senior debut for England in the match. Kearns was immediately put to work, defending against Spain’s Salma Paralluelo and Alexia Putellas, though both failed to convert their chances.
Spain’s pressure eventually paid off in the 60th minute. Pina, who had just come on as a substitute, scored with a low shot to level the score. She quickly followed that with another goal ten minutes later, sending a powerful strike past England’s defense after being set up by Ona Batlle.
England tried to respond, with Kearns having a chance to score on her debut, but her header was saved by Coll.
Spain pushed for a third goal but was unable to find the net. England defended well in the final stages to prevent Spain from extending their lead.
Looking ahead, England will complete their preparations for the defense of their Women’s EURO title with a friendly match against Jamaica on Sunday, June 29.
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