LONDON, Feb 27, (V7N) – Jess Park fired England to a 1-0 victory over Spain in a Women's Nations League showdown on Wednesday, securing a measure of revenge for their 2023 World Cup final defeat.

Park netted the decisive goal in the 33rd minute at Wembley, ensuring that the Lionesses saw off the team ranked second in the world.

After a 1-1 draw with Portugal in their tournament opener, Sarina Wiegman’s side responded with a strong performance as they gear up for their European Championship title defense in Switzerland this summer.

"I think we had a point to prove, we just wanted to do a lot better than Friday," Wiegman said. "We wanted to prove to ourselves we can do better. And we absolutely knew that we had to step up."

A Game of Redemption

This was England’s first encounter with Spain since their 1-0 loss in the World Cup final. Spain’s triumph in 2023 was overshadowed by the Luis Rubiales controversy, where the former Spanish federation president was found guilty of sexual assault after kissing Jenni Hermoso without consent during the medal ceremony.

Spain has since tried to move forward, with Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmatí stating that she hopes speaking out about the incident leads to positive change in football and society.

How the Match Unfolded

England struggled early, with Lucía García’s corner hitting the crossbar as Spain pressed for an opener.

However, England grew into the match, with Lauren James testing Spain keeper Cata Coll twice before Alessia Russo’s solo run led to the crucial goal. Russo’s shot was blocked by Irene Paredes, but Park reacted quickly to poke home from close range.

Spain had a near-instant reply through Salma Paralluelo, but she dragged her effort wide. Hannah Hampton then made a vital save to deny Bonmatí before half-time.

The game was briefly paused in the 52nd minute due to stadium lights going out, but once play resumed, Spain pushed hard for an equalizer. Paralluelo was denied by a last-ditch Millie Bright tackle, while Leila Ouahabi also saw a late effort stopped by Hampton.

England nearly doubled their lead late on, but Coll recovered from spilling a sharp James effort just in time to smother the ball on the line.

Spain coach Montse Tomé admitted her team lacked finishing: "We had chances that we simply didn't take. That’s something we need to improve on, and we will."

With the win, England boosts its hopes in the Nations League, while Spain will look to bounce back in their next fixture.

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