Lucy Bronze said the England‑Spain rivalry makes both sides stronger as the Lionesses prepare to face the world champions in Mallorca. It marks the seventh encounter in under four years and the fourth since last June. Spain lifted the 2023 Women’s World Cup, while England dethroned them in the two most recent Euros. Both teams have exchanged titles recently, heightening the pressure.

England held a final training session under a scorching Mallorca sun, drilling for a fast, low‑possession game. Leah Williamson remains sidelined, but Lauren James and Lucy Bronze are cleared to start, and Ella Toone is described as “ready to go.” Coach Sarina Wiegman stressed the need to clinch top spot early and avoid a play‑off. They also reviewed set‑piece routines to exploit Spain’s high line.

Victory would hand England an automatic berth to the 2027 World Cup, while consigning Spain to the play‑offs and sending a clear message to other contenders. A win without Williamson would mirror the April Wembley triumph that bolstered belief in the squad’s depth. The win would also boost England’s FIFA ranking ahead of the next Euro cycle. England now eyes a statement result to seal group leadership.