England’s Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifying campaign continues with a Group A3 meeting against Spain, with kick-off scheduled for 7pm BST. This live blog follows the action, build-up and reaction from a key fixture in the qualification process.
The match comes against one of the strongest sides in the group, and interest is heightened by England’s team news, particularly the absence of captain Leah Williamson. Sarina Wiegman addressed Williamson’s fitness before the game and said the defender is making progress, but is not quite ready to return.
Williamson still sidelined
Wiegman said Williamson was “going in the right direction” but that this fixture arrived too soon for her comeback. She added that England do not want to “take a massive risk” with the captain, indicating that the team are being cautious about her recovery rather than rushing her back into action.
That means England will have to manage a significant match without one of their key leaders. Williamson’s absence is a notable factor heading into a qualifier of this scale, especially against Spain, who provide a stern test in Group A3.
Live coverage
This article is part of live coverage from the Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifying campaign. It includes updates on the match as well as any relevant pre-match developments and immediate reaction from the contest.
Readers following the game can keep up with the latest through the live blog, with additional coverage also referenced through Moving the Goalposts and Bluesky. The live format is designed to track the game as it unfolds, giving a running account of the most important moments and talking points.
England’s meeting with Spain is one of the headline fixtures in the group stage, and the focus before kick-off has already centred on fitness, selection and the challenge ahead. With Williamson unavailable, attention will be on how England adapt and whether they can deliver a strong performance in an important qualifier.
Further updates will follow as the match develops.
