Spain Women delivered a dominant attacking display to crush Iceland Women 6-1 in their FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification match at the Laugardalsvöllur in Reykjavík on 10 June 2026. The emphatic victory kept Spain firmly on course for a place at the next World Cup, while Iceland were left to rue a second‑half collapse after a promising start.
Match Overview
Coming into the match, Spain were regarded as heavy favorites, sitting atop the UEFA qualification group. Iceland, however, had proven difficult to break down on home soil. The opening stages reflected that tension, with both sides feeling each other out. But once Spain found their rhythm, the match turned into a one-sided affair.
Spain’s high-pressing system overwhelmed Iceland’s midfield, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. The visitors’ movement off the ball was exceptional, with overlapping full‑backs and quick interchanges between the forwards creating constant problems. Iceland’s goal, a well‑taken header from a corner, briefly gave the hosts hope, but Spain responded immediately and never looked back.
Key Moments
- 14’ – Spain take the lead: A flowing move down the right flank ended with a precise low cross that was turned in by Salma Paralluelo at the near post. The early goal settled Spanish nerves.
- 28’ – Iceland equalise: Against the run of play, Iceland won a corner. The delivery was met by Glódís Perla Viggósdóttir, who powered a header into the top corner past a helpless Cata Coll.
- 33’ – Spain regain control: Just five minutes later, Aitana Bonmatí collected a loose ball on the edge of the box and curled a beautiful shot into the bottom corner. 2‑1.
- 45+2’ – Third goal before halftime: A corner from the left was headed on by Irene Paredes, and Alexia Putellas was on hand to poke home from close range. 3‑1 at the break.
- 57’ – Fourth goal: Jennifer Hermoso played a clever one‑two with Paralluelo before slotting past the Icelandic goalkeeper. 4‑1.
- 72’ – Fifth goal: A stunning solo run by teenage winger Vicky López, who dribbled past three defenders and fired into the far corner. 5‑1.
- 84’ – Sixth goal: Substitute Mariona Caldentey finished off a counter‑attack with a composed strike. 6‑1.
Tactical Story
Spain’s coach Jorge Vilda (or his successor) set up the team in a fluid 4‑3‑3 that constantly morphed into a 2‑3‑5 in attack. The full‑backs pushed high, allowing the wingers to cut inside. Iceland tried to sit deep in a compact 4‑4‑2, but Spain’s quick passing and movement pulled them out of shape. The key tactical battle was in midfield: Spain’s trio of Bonmatí, Putellas, and Patricia Guijarro controlled possession, while Iceland’s midfield could not close down quickly enough.
Iceland’s best moments came from set pieces and direct balls. Their equaliser from a corner showed their aerial threat. However, after going behind again, they were forced to push forward, leaving space for Spain’s pacey forwards to exploit. Spain’s ability to switch play rapidly and find runners in behind was the decisive factor.
Standout Players
- Alexia Putellas (Spain): Scored one goal, assisted another, and dictated the tempo. Her intelligent runs into the box were a constant menace.
- Salma Paralluelo (Spain): A constant threat on the wing. Her pace and direct running caused Iceland endless problems, and she scored the opening goal.
- Vicky López (Spain): The 21‑year‑old came off the bench and delivered a moment of individual brilliance with a mazy run for the fifth goal.
- Glódís Perla Viggósdóttir (Iceland): The Iceland captain scored her team’s only goal and was solid defensively despite the scoreline, making several last‑ditch tackles.
Impact on the Group and Qualification Race
The result extended Spain’s winning streak to four matches in the qualifying campaign, keeping them top of the group with maximum points. Iceland remained in second place, but the heavy defeat damaged their goal difference, which could prove crucial if the group finishes level on points. With only the group winner guaranteed automatic qualification, Iceland now face a difficult task to close the gap. Spain, meanwhile, look increasingly formidable and are on track to secure their ticket to the next World Cup with games to spare.
The match also highlighted Spain’s incredible depth. Even without several regular starters, they were able to rotate and still produce a six‑goal performance. For Iceland, the focus will be on regrouping and picking up maximum points in their remaining fixtures against lower‑ranked opponents to secure a playoff spot.

