England faces a critical test as they prepare for the second leg of their Women’s World Cup qualifying playoff against Greece tonight at Leicester’s King Power Stadium. Holding a 3-1 aggregate lead from the first leg played last Friday in Crete, the European champions aim to secure their place in the final qualifying round for next summer’s tournament in Brazil. Despite the advantage, concerns remain about England’s defensive solidity and attacking efficiency.
In Crete, England dominated possession with 58 touches inside Greece’s penalty area, converting three goals from limited chances. However, they conceded one goal on just two Greek touches in their box and saw one shot hit the woodwork, highlighting vulnerabilities in transition defense. Coach Sarina Wiegman has acknowledged the need to improve defending against quick counterattacks, a difficulty also observed in previous matches, including a 4-0 loss to Spain in June and a defeat in Belgium earlier in 2025.
Defensive uncertainty persists around the centre-back partnership. Captain Leah Williamson started alongside Esme Morgan on Friday, but their struggles in duels, particularly against Greek forward Ioanna Papatheodorou, raised questions. Wiegman may consider other options such as Jess Carter or Maya Le Tissier, who has experience both centrally and at right back.
Offensively, England’s efficiency in the final third remains a concern. The team was criticized for not capitalizing more decisively on their chances against a side ranked 59th in the world by FIFA. Wiegman pinpointed the difficulty in execution, noting the importance of timing runs, choosing the right pass, and maintaining precision in attacking moves. Alessia Russo continues as the preferred striker, with Lauren James and Lauren Hemp expected to influence play from wide positions. However, the attacking midfield or “No 10” role is yet to be firmly settled. Wiegman has experimented with players such as Jess Park, Lucia Kendall (currently injured), Laura Blindkilde Brown, Ella Toone, and recently debutant Erica Meg Parkinson. The head coach describes this as having “many options,” reflecting ongoing deliberations over the best fit.
The squad also faces questions about integrating younger talents. Chelsea midfielder Lexi Potter, praised for her intelligence and defensive capabilities, is in form and could feature, alongside other emerging players like Freya Godfrey. The final game of the playoff may offer opportunities to test these prospects, depending on the size of England’s aggregate lead.
Beyond tactical concerns, there remains speculation about Wiegman’s future as England manager, with her current contract running until the end of the World Cup. While no official decisions have been announced, her situation is expected to draw attention in upcoming press conferences. Players, including midfielder Keira Walsh, have expressed support for her continued tenure while respecting that the choice ultimately rests with Wiegman.
England’s next challenge, beyond securing progress against Greece, will be to raise their performance level and cohesion ahead of the final playoff round against either Ukraine or Slovakia. With over 20,000 tickets sold for the Leicester fixture, the atmosphere contrasts with the subdued mood in Crete, offering a chance for England to sharpen their play and build momentum toward their pursuit of a first Women’s World Cup title at the Maracanã next year.