Slovakia W vs Ukraine W - World Cup - Women - Qualification Europe

Tactical intrigue takes centre stage on October 9, 2026 as Slovakia W and Ukraine W prepare to square off at the home ground, with both managers known for their strategic nuance in the World Cup - Women - Qualification Europe. Make it easier than ever to turn a regular fixture into something genuinely unforgettable.

Both Slovakia W and Ukraine W will be eager to build momentum when they meet in World Cup - Women - Qualification Europe. The hosts have struggled for consistency, WLLLL in their last five pointing to a win rate of 33.33%. Ukraine W are in the midst of a slump, LLLLL over their last five and a paltry win rate of 0% summing up their struggles. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — Slovakia W average 1.33 per game to Ukraine W's 0.33, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. Sky Sports columnist Laura Hunter analyses the big talking points from the first round of Women's Super League matches, bringing you closer to the key stories at the heart of the women's game.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Slovakia W favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Ukraine W are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. Everton are aware of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, but there has been no formal approach or contact with them, and they have no appetite to sell the 26-year-old, who has three years on his deal.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. The 6ft 5in defender continued to be around the first team and made the squad for both legs against Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the World Cup - Women - Qualification Europe standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. It is understood that his next move is most likely to take him abroad - and potentially to the Premier League.