Even a point would be a great result for England on Friday, as that would secure automatic qualification for next summer’s World Cup. Only the group winner will get that honour, with the other three teams all to have to navigate the play-offs.
It wouldn’t be the end of the world to end up taking that route, with teams like England and Spain expected to have little trouble coming through eventually, but it changes the World Cup preparation picture entirely.
Looking at how the Lionesses built up to the 2023 tournament, they were able to organise friendlies against elite and varied opposition, including the United States, Japan, South Korea and Australia, while also taking on Brazil in the Finalissima. Spain did similar, facing the U.S, Japan, China, Panama and Jamaica before their run to the title.
The ability to cherry-pick those challenges and take on different opposition is the luxury that the winner of this World Cup qualifying group will get. The other team, however, will spend the rest of 2026 taking on familiar foes in Europe and will be limited in how much they can learn and experience.
So, not only would a result against Spain on Friday play a big role in making England favourites for next year’s World Cup, the favourable impact of that outcome on their tournament preparations would also play a role in elevating their standing.