England edge past Iceland 1-0 to maintain World Cup qualifying lead
Alessia Russo scored the only goal as England secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Iceland in Reykjavik to maintain their lead in World Cup qualifying.
The Arsenal striker found the net in the 21st minute of the Lionesses’ historic 500th international match.
Sarina Wiegman’s side now sit three points clear of Spain at the top of their group, keeping them on course for direct qualification to next year’s tournament in Brazil.
Hampton heroics preserve slender advantage
While the European champions dominated early possession, they were forced to endure a tense second half as the hosts pushed for an equaliser.
Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton proved crucial in the closing stages, producing a string of vital saves to deny a resurgent home attack.
The agile shot-stopper reacted brilliantly to thwart Dilja Zomers at the near post before denying Alexandra Johannsdottir as the mounting pressure threatened to overwhelm the visitors.
Captain Williamson returns to action
The gritty win was bolstered by the return of captain Leah Williamson, who started the match after recovering from a recent hamstring injury.
Williamson was safely substituted at half-time for Lotte Wubben-Moy as the coaching staff sensibly managed the defender’s playing minutes.
The decisive moment of the match had originated earlier from a blistering counter-attack following a rare defensive clearance.
Lauren Hemp drove powerfully through the centre of the pitch before perfectly laying the ball off to her waiting team-mate.
Displaying superb technical skill, the match-winner received the pass on a pivot and fired cleanly into the far corner for her 30th international goal.
Decisive June fixtures loom
England must now prepare for a vital double-header in June against Spain and Ukraine to officially seal their spot at the finals.
With the reigning world champions comfortably beating Ukraine 5-0 on the same evening, the upcoming clash between the group’s top two sides promises to be a spectacular showdown.
