Greek takeaways: What did we learn from England's World Cup play-off win in Crete?
England's women's football team secured a 3-1 victory against Greece in the first leg of their World Cup qualifying play-off. The match featured a standout performance and first international goal from defender Maya le Tissier.
Why it matters
The result is a critical step for England as they attempt to qualify for the World Cup in Brazil following their recent European championship success.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Sarina Wiegman has led England to back-to-back European titles
BBC Sport women’s football news reporter at Pankritio Stadio Published 9 October 2026 England came away from Greece with a valuable first-leg lead in their Women's World Cup qualifying play-off - but what did we learn?
Sarina Wiegman's side are looking to secure their place in Brazil next year but have to navigate the play-offs after finishing runners-up in their qualification group.
The back-to-back European champions won 3-1 in Crete on Friday night and will need to finish the job against Greece on Tuesday in Leicester (19:30 BST).
The winner of the tie faces Ukraine or Slovakia in round two to decide who will head to Brazil.
Lucy Bronze withdrew from the squad with a minor injury earlier this week, handing a rare opportunity to Manchester United captain Maya le Tissier.
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