England vs Spain – A crunch midfield clash, Rachel Daly’s duel with a Spanish star and can Lauren Hemp cause more chaos? The key battles that could decide the World Cup final

England will attempt to make history on Sunday as the Lionesses take on Spain in the World Cup final.

Beating co-host Australia in the semi-finals was the latest obstacle Sarina Wiegman’s team has overcome in an eventful tournament for the England team.

They got rid of tough opponents, came from behind when they needed to, battled through with ten players after being sent off and even won a penalty shootout along the way.

Now the final test will see England clash with Spain, who have surprised many by making it to the final.

Here, Mail Sport takes a look at three key battles where the finals can be won or lost.

Georgia Stanway v Aitana Bonmati

Barcelona midfielder Bonmati is Spain’s creative spark and will look to dictate play in midfield. It’s up to Stanway to try and stop her from playing.

Spain are at their best when Bonmati is on the ball and setting the pace, so it’s up to England’s midfielders, Stanway in particular, to ensure that her influence on the game is kept to a minimum.

The Lionesses must ensure that Bommati is not given time and space to make things happen, but also must be wary of the 25-year-old’s ability to drive forward and score goals himself.

The midfield battle between Barcelona’s Bonmati (right) and Bayern’s Stanway will be key

Rachel Daly vs Alba Redondo

Redondo was top scorer in the Spanish league last season and will try to exploit England’s left wing. Daly (left) performed well at fullback, but it was against Spain at Euro 2022 that she got a torrid time from Athenea del Castillo.

It wouldn’t be surprising if Spain tries to get the ball to Redondo, 26, as much as possible, as she’ll think she’s taking the beating from Daly.

Daly has the protection of an extra central defender behind him, but will have to remain disciplined.

England’s left flank could be an area for Spain to exploit in the final, with Redondo a huge threat

Lauren Hemp vs Laia Codina

Hemp has been England’s best player lately and will try to get behind Spain’s centre-backs. Codina, 23, did not start any of Spain’s group matches but was sent off after they were thrashed 4-0 by Japan.

She has started every knockout match and will join Arsenal from Barcelona next season.

Codina is slower than center back Irene Paredes and Hemp will try to use her speed to cause trouble.

Lauren Hemp has been getting better with each match and will look to continue her form in the finals