Spain sent out a strong message in the race for a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup with a commanding 5-0 victory over Ukraine, boosting their position in the European qualifiers and sharpening an already intense battle at the top of Group A3. Despite missing their talisman Aitana Bonmatí through injury, Spain showed their depth and quality in Córdoba. The midfield was expertly controlled by Alexia Putellas, whose vision and composure dictated the tempo throughout the match.
Spain wasted no time asserting dominance. Within the opening 90 seconds, Bayern Munich striker Edna Imade rose highest to meet a pinpoint cross from Lucía Corrales, powering a header into the net to give the hosts an early lead. The quick opener unsettled Ukraine, and Spain maintained relentless pressure with fluid passing and wide play. However, Ukraine had a rare opportunity to respond before halftime when Olha Ovdiychuk struck the post, a moment that could have shifted momentum but ultimately proved to be their closest chance of the game.
Spain continued in the same rhythm after the break. Just over a minute into the second half, Imade struck again with an almost identical header from another Corrales delivery, underlining Spain’s effectiveness from wide areas. The third goal soon followed, this time from defender María Méndez, who headed home from a cross delivered by rising Barcelona talent Vicky López. The attacking variety highlighted Spain’s ability to threaten from multiple positions.
Salma Paralluelo came close to adding her name to the scoresheet, striking the post during a lively attacking display. Shortly after, Eva Navarro extended the lead with a deflected strike from outside the box, leaving the Ukrainian defence with little room to recover.
The scoring was completed by Vicky López herself, who showcased sharp footwork inside the penalty area before calmly finishing to make it 5-0 and cap off a dominant performance.
The victory temporarily draws Spain level on points with England women’s national football team at the top of Group A3. England, the reigning European champions, had earlier edged Spain 1-0 at Wembley, giving them a slight advantage in the head to head battle. With only the group winner guaranteed direct qualification to the 2027 tournament in Brazil, every match carries significant weight. England still had a fixture against Iceland in Reykjavík, aiming to regain sole possession of the top spot.
Spain’s emphatic win also boosts their goal difference, which could prove decisive if the teams finish level on points.
While the absence of Bonmatí, a three time Ballon d’Or winner and one of the world’s best midfielders, might have been seen as a setback, Spain’s performance highlighted the squad’s depth. Putellas stepped up seamlessly, orchestrating play and linking midfield with attack. This depth has been a defining feature of Spain’s rise in women’s football, culminating in their triumph at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. Their ability to maintain high standards even without key players reinforces their status as one of the favourites for the 2027 edition.
The focus now shifts to a crucial fixture on June 5, when Spain hosts England in Mallorca. The match is expected to play a decisive role in determining which team secures automatic qualification and which may have to navigate the uncertainty of the playoffs. For Spain, the equation is clear. Performances like the one against Ukraine must continue, but victory against England could be the defining moment of their campaign.
Beyond the result, this performance showcased Spain’s attacking fluidity, tactical discipline, and growing confidence. From early dominance to sustained pressure and clinical finishing, it was a complete display that underlines their intent to remain at the top of world football.
As the qualification race tightens, Spain has not only kept pace with England but also sent a warning that they remain a formidable force, with or without their biggest stars.
