Spain and England Set for Blockbuster 2027 World Cup Qualifying Showdown

Today’s women’s soccer news is dominated by the highly anticipated 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup European qualifying draw, in which reigning world champions Spain will again face European champions England. This repeat of the 2023 World Cup final headlines a compelling qualifying group and reignites one of the elite rivalries in global women’s football. Numerous outlets highlight how these matchups will draw the eyes of the world, adding narrative weight to the path toward Australia and New Zealand.

Elsewhere, the NWSL remains at the center of a complex debate over gender eligibility after defending a player barred from a women’s tournament due to sex eligibility rules. This story has prompted discussion across the league, with players responding to op-eds and league statements on inclusion and gender standards, underlining the evolving landscape of women’s soccer and its current social challenges.

On the club front, Angel City FC investor Monarch Collective has extended its reach into German women’s football, signifying ongoing global investment in the women’s game. In Portland, a new punk-inspired women’s team—Cherry Bombs FC—is poised to join the city’s vibrant soccer community in 2026, while star midfielder Olivia Moultrie has signed a contract extension with the Thorns through 2029 after her breakout campaign.

The collegiate scene remains lively, with conference championships and semifinals underway around the U.S., and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations expanded to 16 teams, marking another milestone for the international women’s game.