England vs Spain – the three key battles that could decide where the World Cup final will

England will look to make history on Sunday as the Lionesses take on Spain in the World Cup final.

Beating co-hosts Australia in the semi-final was the latest obstacle Sarina Wiegman‘s team have overcome in an eventful tournament for the England team. 

They’ve seen off tricky opponents, come from behind when they needed to, battled through with ten players after a sending off and even won a penalty shootout along the way.

Now the final test will see England clash with Spain, who have surprised many by getting the final.

Here, Mail Sport looks at three key battles where the final could be won or lost.  

The Lionesses hope to be celebrating by beating Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final 

Georgia Stanway v Aitana Bonmati

Barcelona midfielder Bonmati is Spain’s creative spark and will look to dictate play in the midfield area. It is up to Stanway to try and stop her playing. 

Spain are at their best when Bonmati is on the ball and setting the tempo, so it is up to England’s midfielders, Stanway in particular, to ensure her influence on the game is limited. 

The Lionesses must ensure Bommati is not given time and space to make things happen, but must also be wary that the 25-year-old has the ability to drive forward and score herself.

The midfield battle between Barcelona’s Bonmati (right) and Bayern’s Stanway will be key 

Rachel Daly v Alba Redondo

Redondo was the top scorer in the Spanish league last season and will be looking to exploit England’s left flank. Daly (left) has performed well at full back but it was against Spain at Euro 2022 that she was given a torrid time by Athenea del Castillo.

It would not be surprising if Spain looked to get the ball out to Redondo, 26, as much as possible because she will think she has the beating of Daly. 

Daly has the protection of an extra centre back behind her but will have to stay disciplined.

England’s left flank could be an area for Spain to exploit in the final, with Redondo a huge threat

Lauren Hemp v Laia Codina

Hemp has been England’s best player recently and will look to get in behind Spain’s centre backs. Codina, 23, did not start any of Spain’s group games but was brought into the side after they were thrashed 4-0 by Japan. 

She has started every knockout game and is set to join Arsenal from Barcelona for the coming season. 

Codina is slower than centre back partner Irene Paredes and Hemp will look to use her speed to cause problems.

Lauren Hemp has got better with every game and will look to continue her form in the final