England secure 3-1 first-leg win over Greece to lead World Cup play-off
England beat Greece 3-1 in Crete, taking a comfortable lead into the second leg of the Women’s World Cup play-off semi-final.
England claimed a 3-1 triumph over Greece in Crete, establishing a solid advantage for the second leg of the Women’s World Cup play-off semi-final. Georgia Stanway opened the scoring before halftime, followed by Maya Le Tissier’s strike after the break and a late finish by Alessia Russo. Lauren James saw a potential opener disallowed for off-side, and Greece’s Kallisti Brouksair scored a consolation goal in the closing minutes.
A minute of silence honored Greece defender George Baldock on the second anniversary of his death. The teams will meet again at the King Power Stadium, with the victor set to play either Slovakia or Ukraine for a place at next summer’s tournament.
Why it matters
The result puts England in a strong position to qualify for the Women’s World Cup, shaping the final lineup of teams.
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