England’s women secured a decisive 4‑0 victory over Greece in a Nations League match at the King Power Stadium, putting them just two games away from a place in the 2026 Women’s World Cup. The Lionesses’ 4‑0 win was built on an explosive first half, with Lauren James scoring twice and Alessia Russo adding a goal before the break, while Georgia Stanway also found the net.
The match began with an immediate flourish from England. Russo opened the scoring in the third minute, converting a quick first‑attack finish. James followed with a sharp left‑foot shot in the 12th minute, and a header from Stanway in the 20th minute capped a first‑half run that saw England convert four of six shots on target. Greece struggled to gain possession, holding only 16% of the ball, and their defense was repeatedly breached by England’s clinical passing and movement. A potential goal from debutant Lexi Potter was ruled out after a VAR review confirmed a foul by Stanway on a Greek defender.
England’s manager Sarina Wiegman had called for improvement in the final third before the game, and the team responded with a disciplined approach. After the break, the Lionesses maintained control, with a VAR‑checked offside denying Stanway a second goal. The match’s final goal came in the 78th minute when Russo, after a quick run, slipped past the goalkeeper to finish a Keira Walsh pass. England’s performance was a clear statement of intent, especially after a less convincing display in a 3‑1 defeat to Greece in Crete earlier in the season.
With the win, England have secured a spot in the Nations League playoff final against Ukraine, scheduled for November and December. The playoff will decide the final qualification spot for the World Cup. Wiegman used the game to rotate her squad, giving opportunities to players such as Niamh Charles, Jess Park, and Freya Godfrey, who could be called upon if England face Ukraine.
Looking ahead, England will prepare for the high‑stakes playoff against Ukraine, where they previously won 9‑1 on aggregate. The team’s confidence is high, but the manager remains focused on maintaining intensity and avoiding complacency. The Lionesses’ next challenge will test their resilience and consistency as they aim to secure their place in Brazil for the 2026 Women’s World Cup.