Spain expose England's flaws in heavy defeat that 'hurts'

England just needed to avoid defeat against Spain - instead they suffered their heaviest loss in 17 years.

A win or a draw would have sealed the Lionesses' place at the 2027 Women's World Cup but a 4-0 drubbing in Majorca means they will likely have to navigate two rounds of play-offs in the autumn instead.

As nights go, this was one to forget for manager Sarina Wiegman, who admitted it "hurt" to lose so heavily against their rivals.

Now England return home knowing victory against Ukraine in their final qualifying match on Tuesday (20:00 BST) will only matter if Spain drop points in Iceland at the same time.

"I expected a very tight game. There was a difference tonight because we were disappointing - and it hurts," said Wiegman.

"We just didn't play good enough, and we couldn't step up anymore. They became more dangerous but we couldn't get to another gear.

"First of all, what I'm trying to do now is think 'what caused this?' We have to see what went really wrong.

"Of course I'm frustrated and disappointed but so are the players. This hurts because we have lost a couple of times but not with such a big score."