England swept past Greece with a 5-0 victory at Leicester’s King Power Stadium, completing an 8-1 aggregate win in their Women’s World Cup qualifying play-off and setting up a two-legged second-round tie against Ukraine.
Alessia Russo and Lauren James scored twice each, while Georgia Stanway added another goal as the Lionesses produced a dominant performance to progress.
Chelsea forward James set up Arsenal striker Russo for the opening goal in the third minute, driving through midfield before releasing her teammate to beat the goalkeeper one-on-one.
James doubled England’s lead in the 16th minute with a powerful strike into the top corner. Stanway then headed home Lauren Hemp’s cross in the 30th minute before James volleyed in her second goal four minutes later.
England went into half-time with a commanding 4-0 lead and continued to create chances after the break.
Stanway appeared to score her second goal in the 50th minute after controlling the ball and volleying home, but the video assistant referee (VAR) ruled it out for offside.
Russo completed the scoring in the 75th minute, turning away from her defender before finishing from a tight angle.
Wiegman Praises England’s Response
England head coach Sarina Wiegman said her players had improved on their performance in the first leg, which England won 3-1 in Crete.
“I saw a lot of good things. We wanted to do the things that we’re trying to do better than Friday and we’ve shown a lot better,” Wiegman told ITV Sport. “There’s always improvements but we scored some great goals.”
She said Greece’s high pressing made the opening stages challenging, but England’s early goal helped the team settle into the match.
Wiegman also explained that England were working to evolve their playing style and adapt their system to keep pace with developments in the women’s game.
The coach said England would study Ukraine’s strengths and weaknesses before their next tie, while continuing to improve their own approach.
Russo Highlights England’s Ruthless Start
Russo said England had identified areas to improve after the first leg and delivered a more decisive performance in Leicester.
“We were happy with the first game with getting the win but there were some things we wanted to work on which we saw tonight. We were ruthless early on,” she said.
She also praised James, describing her as a technically gifted player who can operate anywhere in the attacking third.
England will now face Ukraine over two legs in November and December, with the Lionesses aiming to move another step closer to World Cup qualification.
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