Spain sent a powerful message in their quest to defend their World Cup crown, dismantling Ukraine 5-0 in a dominant Women's World Cup 2027 qualifying display on Saturday. The emphatic victory in Cordoba provisionally pulls La Roja level on points with England at the top of Group A3, significantly boosting their goal difference in what is shaping up to be a fierce battle for automatic qualification.

Edna Imade was the star of the show, showcasing her aerial prowess with two superb first-half headers. The Bayern Munich striker needed less than 90 seconds to open the floodgates, powerfully meeting a Lucia Corrales cross. She then repeated the feat almost immediately after the restart, nodding in another Corrales delivery to put the result beyond doubt.

Despite the absence of the injured Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati, Spain's midfield creativity never wavered, with Alexia Putellas orchestrating play. After Salma Paralluelo rattled the post, Maria Mendez headed in a third before further goals from Eva Navarro and the impressive teenager Vicky Lopez completed the rout.

Coach Sonia Bermudez praised her team's execution, particularly highlighting Imade's power, but noted the relentless pursuit of improvement that defines champions. The victory sets the stage for a colossal showdown on June 5th, when Spain will host England in Mallorca—a match that will likely decide who tops the group and books a direct ticket to Brazil, avoiding the playoff path.