As of February 12, 2025, the England women’s national football team, known as the Lionesses, is preparing for a series of pivotal fixtures that will shape their competitive landscape for the year. Under the guidance of manager Sarina Wiegman, the team is set to compete in crucial matches in the UEFA Women’s Nations League and the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025. With a blend of experienced leaders and emerging talents, England aims to assert its dominance in international women’s football.
Upcoming Nations League Fixtures
The Lionesses are set to begin their UEFA Women’s Nations League campaign with two crucial matches:
Portugal vs. England: Scheduled for Friday, February 21, 2025, at 7:45 PM GMT, this away fixture will take place at the Estádio Municipal de Portimão.
England vs. Spain: Following the Portugal match, England will host Spain on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 8:00 PM GMT at Wembley Stadium.
These fixtures are vital, as they not only impact the Nations League standings but also serve as essential preparation for the upcoming European Championship. The Nations League provides a competitive platform for the Lionesses to refine their tactics and squad dynamics against top European opponents.
Squad Developments Ahead of Nations League
Manager Sarina Wiegman has announced the squad for the upcoming Nations League matches, with notable inclusions and omissions:
Lauren James Returns: After being sidelined due to injury since April 2024, forward Lauren James makes a significant return to the squad, boosting England’s attacking options.
Nikita Parris Recalled: Following a two-year absence, Nikita Parris has been recalled to the national team, reflecting her impressive form at Brighton.
Chloe Kelly Omitted: Despite her heroics in the 2022 Euros final, Chloe Kelly has been left out of the squad due to limited game time at her club.
Injuries have also impacted squad selection, with key players such as Georgia Stanway, Lauren Hemp, and Alex Greenwood unavailable. Wiegman has expressed hope for their swift recovery and future contributions.
UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 Group Stage Draw
Looking ahead, the Lionesses face a formidable challenge in the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025, having been drawn into what is widely regarded as the ‘Group of Death’:
France: Ranked 10th globally, France will be England’s first opponent on July 5, 2025.
Netherlands: The Dutch team, ranked 11th, is scheduled for a clash on July 9, 2025.
Wales: In a historic ‘Battle of Britain,’ England will face Wales, making their major tournament debut, on July 13, 2025.
Manager Sarina Wiegman acknowledges the difficulty of the group but remains optimistic, citing recent victories against both France and the Netherlands as confidence boosters.
Fixture Details for UEFA Women’s EURO 2025
The group stage fixtures for the Lionesses in the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 are as follows:
France vs. England: Saturday, July 5, 2025, at 8:00 PM BST, Stadion Letzigrund.
England vs. Netherlands: Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 5:00 PM BST, Stadion Letzigrund.
England vs. Wales: Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 8:00 PM BST, kybunpark.
These matches will be pivotal for England’s aspirations to progress beyond the group stage and contend for the championship.
Fan Engagement and Ticket Information
The Lionesses have enjoyed robust support from fans, with record attendances in recent matches. Supporters looking to attend the upcoming fixtures can find ticket information on the official England Football website. For those unable to attend in person, matches are typically broadcast live on major sports networks and streaming platforms, ensuring fans can follow the action closely.
Growing Popularity of Women’s Football in England
The Lionesses’ recent success on the international stage, including their Euro 2022 victory and strong performance in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, has significantly boosted the popularity of women’s football in England. Increased media coverage, higher attendance at matches, and greater commercial investments have created a thriving environment for the sport’s continued growth. The upcoming fixtures provide an excellent opportunity to further engage fans and expand the game’s influence.
Financial and Sponsorship Growth
With the rising viewership of women’s football, major brands and sponsors are now more willing to invest in the sport. The Women’s FA Cup Final attracted significant sponsorship interest, and the financial rewards for teams reaching the final have been increasing. This financial boost enables clubs to improve facilities, scouting networks, and player salaries, ultimately enhancing the quality of competition and ensuring the long-term sustainability of women’s football in England.
Young Talent and Future Prospects
With experienced players leading the squad, England is also seeing a rise in young, promising talents. Players like Jess Park and Grace Clinton are making their mark, bringing fresh energy and depth to the team. The Lionesses’ current fixtures will be crucial in integrating these younger players into the squad, ensuring that England remains competitive on the global stage for years to come.
The Road Ahead: England’s Aspirations for 2025
Beyond the immediate challenges in the Nations League and Euro 2025, England is laying the groundwork for long-term success. The Football Association (FA) has continued to invest in grassroots development, coaching programs, and women’s football academies, aiming to produce a steady stream of talent capable of competing at the highest level.
As the Lionesses prepare for their upcoming challenges, the focus remains on building a well-rounded team that can not only compete but also set new benchmarks for excellence in women’s football. Sarina Wiegman’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping a squad that balances experience with youth, resilience with creativity, and tactical discipline with attacking flair.
In Closing
The England women’s national football team is poised for a series of challenging and exciting fixtures in 2025. With a blend of returning talent and emerging players, the Lionesses are preparing to make a significant impact in both the UEFA Women’s Nations League and the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025. Fans are encouraged to support the team through attendance, viewership, and engagement as they embark on this pivotal journey.
The increasing popularity of women’s football in England is evident through record-breaking attendances, rising sponsorship investments, and the growing number of young girls taking up the sport. As the Lionesses continue their journey, their success will not only be measured by trophies but also by the lasting legacy they create for future generations of female footballers.
With a challenging year ahead, England will look to prove their status as one of the top teams in women’s football, carrying the hopes of a nation eager to see them lift another major trophy.
FAQs
Q: What are the upcoming fixtures for the England Women’s National Football Team, known as the Lionesses?
a: As of February 12, 2025, the Lionesses are preparing for two significant UEFA Women’s Nations League matches. On Friday, February 21, 2025, they will face Portugal in Portimão, marking the start of their League A Group 3 campaign. Following this, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, England will host the reigning world champions, Spain, at Wembley Stadium in London. This match is particularly anticipated as it serves as a rematch of the 2023 World Cup final. Both fixtures are crucial as the Lionesses aim to establish a strong position in their Nations League group.
Q: How can I purchase tickets for the Lionesses’ upcoming home matches?
a: Tickets for the Lionesses’ home fixtures, including the upcoming match against Spain at Wembley Stadium, can be purchased through the official England Football website. The website provides detailed information on ticket availability, pricing, and purchasing options. It’s advisable to secure tickets early, especially for high-profile matches, to ensure availability and preferred seating.
Q: Are there any notable squad updates ahead of the upcoming matches?
a: Yes, there have been significant updates to the Lionesses’ squad. Forward Chloe Kelly has been omitted from the squad due to limited playing time at the club level. Conversely, Nikita Parris returns to the national team after a two-year absence, having demonstrated good form with Brighton. Additionally, Lauren James has been recalled after recovering from injury. Key players Georgia Stanway, Alex Greenwood, and Lauren Hemp are absent due to injuries.
Q: Where can I watch the Lionesses’ upcoming matches?
a: Broadcasting rights for the Lionesses’ matches are typically held by major sports networks. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on where to watch the upcoming fixtures against Portugal and Spain, it’s recommended to check the official England Football website or consult local sports broadcasting schedules closer to the match dates.
Q: How can I stay updated on any changes to the Lionesses’ match schedule?
a: To stay informed about any alterations to the Lionesses’ match schedule, it’s recommended to regularly check the official England Football website, which provides the most accurate and up-to-date information. Additionally, subscribing to the Lionesses’ official communication channels, such as newsletters and social media accounts, can provide timely updates on any schedule changes, ticket releases, and other important announcements.
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