England women’s national football team Player Ratings: Russo Shines as Lionesses Crush Ukraine in World Cup Qualifier

The England women’s national football team delivered a statement performance in their opening World Cup qualifier, dismantling Ukraine in a thrilling second-half explosion that produced six goals. It was a night of dominance, flair, and ruthless finishing, with Alessia Russo leading the charge as the standout performer on the pitch.

England struggled to break through in a tightly contested first half, but once the floodgates opened after the break, there was no stopping the Lionesses. The attacking unit came alive, and the team’s depth and quality were on full display as they overwhelmed their opponents with relentless pressure and precision finishing.

Alessia Russo – 9/10

Razor-sharp and clinical, Russo was the difference-maker in the final third. Her movement constantly stretched the Ukrainian defence, and she played a key role in unlocking spaces that led to England’s scoring spree. Whether dropping deep to link play or making intelligent runs behind the backline, she looked unstoppable. A complete forward’s performance that justified her reputation as one of Europe’s elite strikers.

Georgia Stanway – 8.5/10

Stanway was equally influential, driving England forward with energy and confidence. Her brace reflected her attacking instincts from midfield, arriving in dangerous positions at the right time. She dictated tempo when England were in control and added vital goals during the second-half blitz that broke Ukraine’s resistance.

Jess Park – 8.5/10

Jess Park also enjoyed a standout evening, matching Stanway with a brace of her own. Her creativity and composure in front of goal stood out, and she linked well with the forward line. Park’s ability to drift into space and exploit defensive gaps made her a constant threat throughout the second half.

Defence and Midfield Control

While the headlines focused on the attackers, England’s defensive structure and midfield control laid the foundation for victory. The backline remained composed after a slow start, ensuring Ukraine had limited clear chances once England took control of the game. The midfield trio worked tirelessly to regain possession and launch quick transitions that overwhelmed the opposition.

Team Performance – 8.5/10

This was a complete team performance after the interval. England showed patience in the first half, then unleashed their full attacking power when it mattered most. The six-goal second-half blitz demonstrated not just individual brilliance but also tactical flexibility and squad depth.

Final Verdict

This emphatic win sends a strong message to England’s World Cup qualifying rivals. With players like Russo, Stanway, and Park in such devastating form, the Lionesses look well-equipped for another successful international campaign. The blend of experience, youth, and attacking firepower makes them one of the most dangerous teams in women’s football.

For Ukraine, it was a harsh lesson in efficiency at the highest level, but for England, it was the perfect start—powered by a ruthless second-half performance and a star showing from Alessia Russo.