England missed out on a spot in the Nations League finals as Claudia Pina’s double saw Spain come from behind to beat them 2-1 and win Group A3 themselves.
The Lionesses cast aside the hosts’ dominance to lead from their first shot when Alessia Russo slotted past the onrushing Cata Coll after beating the offside trap from Kiera Walsh’s through ball.
Spain were furious play was not brought back for what appeared to be a valid complaint about an earlier foul from Niamh Charles, but their protests fell on deaf ears with England’s lead setting them on course to reach October’s finals.
Their hopes were dashed on the hour mark as Claudia Pina, a surprise absence from the Spain starting line-up, saw an effort squirm past Hannah Hampton two minutes after coming on.
England created so little all game they had little answer to Spain’s equaliser, and instead fell behind to a second from Pina, who beat Hampton again with a fine 25-yard effort which nestled in off the far post.
Spain continued to look the more threatening, but even without the cushion of a third goal, they comfortably held on to reach the finals themselves.
The Lionesses’ final game before their Euro 2025 squad is confirmed on Thursday raised more questions than answers for Sarina Wiegman, whose side are now guaranteed to see their winless streak outside of England extended into a second year.
Wiegman unconcerned despite defeat
England manager Sarina Wiegman speaking to ITV Sport:
“It’s a learning moment. I wouldn’t say I’m concerned, they did something different and then you want to exploit the space they leave in behind, but you need to keep the ball first.
“That’s not easy, but it’s something to take with us again moving forward.”
On Hannah Hampton’s performance: “She was put under a lot of pressure, as the whole defence was.
“There were a lot of moments with a lot of players around her, crosses right in front of her – it was a good game for her to experience that.”
Williamson: Inconsistency a theme of our campaign
England captain Leah Williamson speaking to ITV Sport:
“We didn’t really have any real threat. Under that much pressure, against a top side, that’s what happens sometimes.
“We just have to be a bit better on the ball. Find solutions quicker, it’s a great lesson – maybe that’s been the inconsistency throughout the campaign.
“It’s something to work on, but we have the capability to be better. We know what we are capable of, the game changes constantly, and we have to be able to adapt quicker.”
What next for the Lionesses?
All kick-offs UK time (BST)
June 29: Jamaica (H), friendly at King Power Stadium, kick-off 5pm
July 5: France (N), Women’s Euro 2025 group stage, kick-off 8pm
July 9: Netherlands (N), Women’s Euro 2025 group stage, kick-off 5pm
July 13: Wales (N), Women’s Euro 2025 group stage, kick-off 8pm
