England's Lucy Bronze on Facing Spain in Key World Cup Qualifier: 'They Bring Out the Best in Us' England's defender Lucy Bronze emphasized the significance of their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Spain, calling the rivalry a catalyst for growth. Sarina Wiegman, the Lionesses' head coach, reiterated the team's determination to secure a direct qualification spot for the 2025 Women's World Cup in Brazil. The match, set for Friday in Mallorca, marks a pivotal moment in Group A3, where England leads with a perfect record and a three-point advantage over Spain. A draw would guarantee England a place at the tournament, while a Spain victory would force a tense final showdown against Ukraine. Wiegman highlighted the team's readiness, noting their strong position in the group and the importance of securing qualification swiftly. "We're in a good position, and we're ready for tomorrow," she said, acknowledging the challenges of the group but emphasizing the team's focus on winning. The squad is fully fit, though captain Leah Williamson's absence due to a hamstring injury has been mitigated by the inclusion of Liverpool's Grace Fisk. Chelsea's Lauren James, recovering from a minor injury, has returned to training quickly after her club's recent success in the World Sevens tournament. Bronze, reflecting on the rivalry, praised Spain's impact on England's development. "They bring out the best in us," she said, describing the competition as a mutually beneficial dynamic that has elevated both teams and inspired progress across Europe. The rivalry, she noted, has been a driving force for improvement, with Spain's recent advancements pushing England to refine their performance. This mutual challenge, she argued, has not only strengthened the teams but also elevated the standard of women's football globally.#mallorca #spain #lionesses #lucy_bronze #sarina_wiegman
