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Spain moved level with England at the top of their Women’s World Cup qualifying group after a dominant 5-0 victory over Ukraine on Saturday.
Playing in Cordoba, the 2023 World Cup winners took control early, with Edna Imade scoring twice from headers—once in the opening 90 seconds and again shortly after the halftime break.
The win significantly improves Spain’s goal difference as they compete for the group’s sole automatic qualification spot for the 2027 tournament in Brazil.
Despite the absence of the injured Aitana Bonmati, the Spanish side remained in command, led by a strong midfield performance from Alexia Putellas.
Ukraine briefly threatened an equaliser before halftime when Olha Ovdiychuk hit the woodwork, but Spain pulled away in the second half.
Additional goals from Maria Mendez, Eva Navarro, and teenager Vicky Lopez rounded out the comfortable win.
Spain now face a crucial period in their qualifying campaign as they chase European champions England, who currently hold a slight advantage in the standings.
While England remain in a strong position, the race for the top spot is expected to culminate in June when Spain host the English side in Mallorca. That match is likely to determine which team secures direct qualification and which must navigate the play-off rounds.
