Spain routed England 4-0 in a Women's World Cup European qualifier match on June 5, 2026, in Mallorca, intensifying the race in Group A3 [1, 2, 3]. Patri Guijarro opened the scoring in the 19th minute before Alexia Putellas added two goals—one before halftime and another 10 minutes into the second half [1, 2, 3]. Claudio Pina closed the scoring after a pass from Aitana Bonmati [1, 3]. The big loss leaves England tied with Spain on 12 points at the top of Group A3, but facing a challenging scenario for direct qualification. The Guardian called England's defeat "utterly humiliating" and said "only a minor miracle will save" the European champions from playoffs [2].
Germany secured their place in the Women's World Cup finals by beating Norway 2-0 in Group A4, giving them a four-point lead over Norway [1, 3]. Ireland moved into second place in Group A2 by beating the Netherlands 3-2 with a last-minute goal, while France leads the group after a 2-0 win over Poland [1, 3]. Denmark's 2-1 victory over Sweden in Group A1 ended Sweden's hopes for direct qualification. Denmark tops Group A1 with 11 points, three clear of Italy in second [1, 3].
England must outperform Spain in the final Group A3 matches on June 9 to qualify directly. England will host Ukraine and Spain will face Iceland in matches that will decide the group's automatic qualifier spot [1, 3].
