The England women’s national football team began their 2027 Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign in dominant fashion with a 6–1 victory over the Ukraine women’s national football team in Antalya, Turkey. The match was played at a neutral venue as Ukraine cannot host games due to the ongoing war in the country.
Despite controlling possession and creating several chances, England were frustrated in the first half as Ukraine’s defence held firm and the score remained 0–0 at halftime. The breakthrough finally came just after the restart when striker Alessia Russo finished calmly in the 47th minute. She struck again only four minutes later to give England a strong lead.
Ukraine briefly responded in the 58th minute when Yana Kalinina scored from close range after England failed to clear a free-kick, reducing the deficit to 2–1. However, England quickly regained control. Midfielder Georgia Stanway converted a penalty in the 64th minute before adding another powerful strike six minutes later to extend the advantage.
The Lionesses continued their attacking dominance in the closing stages. Jess Park scored in the 78th minute and sealed the emphatic win with a fine finish in the 89th minute, completing a remarkable second-half scoring spree.
England manager Sarina Wiegman praised the team’s response after the break, noting that the performance improved significantly once the first goal arrived. England dominated the game overall, finishing with far more possession and chances as they secured a convincing start to their qualification campaign.
With only the group winner earning automatic qualification for the World Cup, the big victory could prove important for England as they aim to progress to the tournament in Brazil.
Score: Ukraine 1 – 6 England
England scorers: Alessia Russo (47’, 51’), Georgia Stanway (64’ pen, 70’), Jess Park (78’, 89’)
Ukraine scorer: Yana Kalinina (58’)
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