England Women vs Spain Women Predictions

• England have won nine consecutive games including their three group-stage victories, beating three teams ranked in the world’s top 11 in that time.
• Spain, meanwhile, have only won one of their five meetings with top-10 opponents this year.
• The hosts have only conceded three times in 17 games under Sarina Wiegman, scoring a massive 98 goals.

Can Lionesses roar into the final four?

Having become the first team since Germany in 2001, 2005 and 2009 to win all three group games in consecutive European Championships as they cruised into the quarter-finals, in-form England return to the scene of their remarkable 8-0 thrashing of Norway, Brighton’s AMEX Stadium, for a last-eight meeting with Spain. While La Roja were the last team to avoid defeat against England (drawing 0-0 in February), the hosts look good to reach a third semi-final in four Euro appearances on Wednesday.

Indeed, England’s 5-0 trouncing of Northern Ireland made it 17 games unbeaten under Sarina Wiegman, 15 of which have been victories. Incredibly, England have scored 98 goals in those contests, but their record of just three goals conceded is almost as impressive. Meanwhile, a run of nine consecutive wins, three of which have come against teams in the world rankings’ top 11 in Germany, the Netherlands and Norway, means the hosts deserve their favourites tag.

Spain began the Euros well-fancied, but losing Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas and record goalscorer Jennifer Hermoso to injury hampered their chances, and they have flattered to deceive. A loss to Germany made it just one win in five meetings with top-10 opponents for Spain this year, and they managed just one goal across their last two games despite managing 70 and 74 per cent of the play. Indeed, Spain’s commitment to one style could cost them against a versatile, confident England side.

It’s coming home? Hosts set for semis

Although England may have to spend much of their time out of possession against a talented Spain side, La Roja’s lack of cutting edge and the hosts’ big-game record means backing the Lionesses to reach the final four looks a strong play.

England have recorded more direct attacks than any other team at the tournament, and only Spain have managed more attacks featuring a build-up of 10 passes or more. Their flexibility could see them frustrate La Roja and earn a 1-0 win.