The first round of qualifiers for the 2027 Women's World Cup brought expected results, though not without drama. The German and English national teams secured spectacular victories, confirming their aspirations for the highest goals. Meanwhile, Italy got off to a false start against Sweden. The sporting competition was accompanied by a strong political note related to the gesture of Iranian players, who during the Asian Cup protested against the regime by refusing to sing the anthem.

German goal festival

The German national team confidently defeated Slovenia, with debutant Larissa Mühlhaus scoring a goal in her first appearance.

England thrashes Ukraine

A 6:1 victory confirmed England's status as one of the main favorites for the world title.

Iran's political gesture

Iranian players refused to sing the anthem during the Asian Cup, responding to questions about the wartime situation.

Italian false start

The Italian national team lost to Sweden, casting doubt on their quick qualification for the World Cup.

The start of the fight for tickets to the tournament in Brazil was marked by the dominance of Europe's top teams. The German national team showcased offensive football in their match against Slovenia, winning high and indisputably. A special moment was the debut of Larissa Mühlhaus, who scored her first goal for the national team after just a few minutes on the pitch. The offensive leaders Lea Schüller and Linda Dallmann also returned to scoring form, calming German commentators after their weaker performances in league play. The German press emphasizes that the team under the interim coaching staff has regained confidence and effectiveness in creating chances. The European champions were equally impressive. The Lionesses, under Sarina Wiegman, thrashed the Ukrainian national team 6:1. A key figure in the match was Alessia Russo, whose two goals dashed the opponents' hopes for a favorable result early in the game. The Lionesses coach praised the tactical discipline and execution of offensive plans after the match. At the same time, Switzerland, debuting under coach Navarro, defeated Northern Ireland 2:0. While the score suggests a certain success, Swiss media point to many shortcomings in build-up play and weaker efficiency that could prove costly against tougher opponents. The FIFA Women's World Cup, organized since 1991, has evolved from a niche event into a global spectacle. The upcoming 2027 tournament will be the first ever held in South America, which is expected to accelerate the professionalization of the sport in the region.Italian fans have fewer reasons to celebrate. The Italian national team lost to Sweden, significantly complicating their path to direct qualification. Coach Andrea Soncin did not hide his disappointment, pointing to the Scandinavians' physical advantage in set pieces. Outside Europe, global media is focused on events from the Asian Cup, where Iranian players made a bold political gesture. During the official ceremony, they refused to sing the national anthem, showing solidarity with victims of repression in their own country. Sara Didar, speaking to journalists, could barely hold back tears, becoming a symbol of the fight for women's rights transcending the boundaries of sport. „Das ist Wahnsinn, ich kenne solche Situationen nur aus dem Fernsehen und jetzt erlebe ich das selbst” — Larissa Mühlhaus

Perspektywy mediów: Liberal media in Germany and Switzerland highlight the political act of Iranian women as a triumph of courage over oppression. Conservative reports focus primarily on sporting results and tactical analyses, treating political gestures as a secondary topic.

Mentioned People

  • Larissa Mühlhaus — German footballer who scored a goal in her debut match against Slovenia.
  • Sarina Wiegman — Dutch coach leading the England women's national team.
  • Alessia Russo — English forward, author of two goals in the match against Ukraine.