An emphatic 5-1 win over Ireland Rep was the perfect start to Russia's qualifying campaign for the 2007 Women's World Cup. The win in Moscow on SAT 09 JUL 2005 is the world's first qualifying match for China 2007 and gives Russia the early lead in UEFA Group 4, from which only one of Russia, Ireland Rep, Germany, Scotland, or Switzerland will qualify.

The draw for UEFA's 2007 Women's World Cup qualifiers was made on FRI 18 MAR 2005, putting twenty five hopefuls into five groups. The highlight is Group 4, where defending champions Germany must face Russia; both teams topped their respective groups at USA 2003. France and England are partners in Group 5, after les Bleues eliminated England for UEFA's last place at the 2003 Women's World Cup. The five group winners qualify, with play beginning in AUG 2005. more...