England put in an impressive display at Wembley Stadium to beat world champions Spain in the Women's Nations League.

It was the first time the two teams had met since Spain beat England in the 2023 Women's World Cup final - and England took their opportunity to make amends.

Jess Park scored the winner in the first half, pouncing on the rebound to Alessia Russo's strike and capitalising on a strong period by England.

Sarina Wiegman's side, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Portugal on Friday, have been criticised for recent displays but this was England closer to their best.

Defensively solid - albeit still tested by Spain's individual quality - and a threat going forward, they showed they can still compete with the world's elite.

Chelsea forward Lauren James was a standout performer, while full-backs Niamh Charles and Lucy Bronze made a number of key tackles to halt Spain.

Spain striker Salma Paralluelo had chances to equalise late on and Lucia Garcia struck the crossbar in the first half but England's victory was well-earned.

The result boosts their position in the Women's Nations League table and is a big step in the right direction in their preparations for Euro 2025.

Criticism of England's performances had grown in recent months so it felt a big night for the Lionesses and manager Wiegman.

Spain, buoyed by their stoppage-time victory over Belgium on Friday, started off as the stronger of the two sides with Paralluelo causing problems down England's right-hand side.

But Bronze marshalled her well and England's backline, led by captain Leah Williamson, stood solid, forcing Spain deeper as they resorted to shots from outside the box.

Spain boss Montse Tome said after the game she was not surprised by England's defensive performance but felt the result was harsh on her side.

"I think Spain deserved more from the game," she said. "We started the game very well and played at a good tempo. We didn't manage to score and we don't get any points tonight.

"We had chances that we simply didn't take, that's an area we need to improve on and we will improve. England could have scored more too. England scored their goal, we didn't and we just need to keep improving for the next game."

Momentum swung in England's favour midway through the half and they capitalised with James drifting past defenders on one wing, as Park battled and tricked her way through on the other side.

Arsenal striker Alessia Russo, who was on the scoresheet in last week's 1-1 draw with Portugal, impressed yet again and it was her weaving run that led to Park's opener.

"I hope that gives her a lot of confidence," Wiegman said of Park. "I think she grew into the game - she had to adapt and later on she really got into it.

"In possession, we gave Jess the freedom to come inside, a little bit like a number 10. She is very agile. She had to defend too and that is a little different. Sometimes she was really deep and close to Lucy Bronze. It's really nice for the team that we can make different decisions with different players."

Wiegman had called for more ruthlessness last week and England made no mistake this time around, capitalising on their momentum and rattling Spain.

A response was expected and the world champions continued to create chances but goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, selected ahead of Mary Earps as they continue to battle for the number one spot, made a strong save to deny Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati.

Claudia Pina and Garcia had further chances for Spain but England remained composed, maintaining pressure and using their width effectively, while centre-backs Williamson and Millie Bright blocked countless shots.

James thought she had made it 2-0 with minutes remaining but Spain goalkeeper Cata Coll recovered to gather in her strike on the goalline with substitute Chloe Kelly lurking dangerously nearby.

But if England supporters needed reminding of their quality, this was a performance to do so.

Spain on the other hand have had to deal with plenty off the pitch this week – former federation chief Luis Rubiales was found guilty of sexual assault - and this was one battle too far for them.

They have ground to make up in the defence of their Women's Nations League title and it will no doubt be another blockbuster showdown when these teams meet again in June.