The England women's national football team, known as the Lionesses, is set to face Ukraine and Iceland in upcoming qualifying matches for the FIFA 2027 Women's World Cup. This period is particularly important as it marks the beginning of their quest to secure a place in the tournament. Head coach Sarina Wiegman has named a squad that includes both established players and new talent, aiming to build momentum and test different combinations ahead of the more rigorous qualifying campaign.
Squad Selection and Player Focus
The recent squad announcement for the Lionesses ahead of their World Cup qualifiers shows a blend of experience and emerging players. This selection is seen as a vital step in preparing for the competitive matches ahead.
New Additions: The squad features Poppy Pattinson, a defender from London City Lionesses, receiving her first call-up. Teammate Freya Godfrey and Liverpool's Grace Fisk are also among those hoping to earn their first senior caps.
Returning Talent: Players like Lauren Hemp are returning from injury, providing a boost to the team's attacking options.
Established Stars: Familiar names such as Lucy Bronze, Ella Toone, and Alessia Russo are included, alongside Leah Williamson, Hannah Hampton, Alex Greenwood, and Lauren James, indicating a strong core group.
Upcoming Fixtures and Campaign Importance
The Lionesses' path towards the 2027 World Cup begins with key fixtures. These matches are critical for accumulating points and developing team cohesion.
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Match Schedule: The team is scheduled to play Ukraine in Turkey on March 3, followed by a home game against Iceland at Nottingham's City Ground on March 7.
Qualifying Group: Spain is identified as a rival within England's qualifying group for the World Cup.
Limited Camps: With only eight international camps remaining before the World Cup qualifiers officially begin, these early matches are paramount for the team's preparation and strategy.
Defensive Challenges and Adaptations
Sarina Wiegman's squad faces certain challenges, particularly in defensive positions, which may necessitate tactical adjustments.
Full-Back Options: There is a noted scarcity of natural full-back options. Maya Le Tissier, a captain for Manchester United, is being considered as a backup for Lucy Bronze despite primarily playing at center-back for her club.
Injury Impact: The absence of Lia Charles and a recent injury to Maya Hinds has limited options at left-back. This situation might lead to Alex Greenwood shifting from her usual center-back role to a full-back position.
Unavailable Players: Ella Morris of Tottenham is nearing a return from an ACL injury but will not be available for these upcoming matches.
Building Towards the Future
The current squad selections reflect a forward-thinking approach, focusing on player development and squad depth as the team progresses towards the World Cup.
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Emerging Players: The inclusion of uncapped players and those with limited senior international experience suggests an effort to evaluate new talent.
Opportunity for Growth: These matches provide a platform for lesser-known players to impress Wiegman and potentially secure their places in future squads as the 2027 World Cup draws nearer.
Recent Form: England's strong performances, including 8-0 victories against China and Ghana in recent friendlies, indicate a team in good form and developing a ruthless edge.
Expert Analysis
The current squad selection and upcoming matches are viewed as a critical juncture for the Lionesses.
"The intensity of these matches will be felt, as Wiegman’s squad aims to secure their place in Brazil without any missteps."— Article 2: Lionesses Gear Up for 2027 World Cup Qualifiers: Key Matches and Player Updates
"With just eight international camps left until the World Cup qualifiers begin, Wiegman will be eager to put her side through their paces."— Article 8: Euros success in 2025 - are England Lionesses ready to tackle 2026 and World Cup qualifiers?
Conclusion
The Lionesses are entering a significant phase in their preparation for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. The upcoming qualifiers against Ukraine and Iceland are crucial for the team's journey. Coach Sarina Wiegman is balancing the inclusion of experienced players with opportunities for emerging talent, such as Poppy Pattinson, Freya Godfrey, and Grace Fisk. Despite some challenges in defensive positions due to injuries and player roles at their clubs, the squad appears to be in strong form, evidenced by recent commanding friendly victories. These early qualification matches are essential for building momentum, testing tactical approaches, and ultimately securing a place in the World Cup.
Sources Used
The Standard: https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/lionesses-squad-confirmed-ukraine-iceland-b1271328.html - Provides details on the squad, new call-ups, and upcoming opponents.
g3.football: https://g3.football/lionesses-gear-up-for-2027-world-cup-qualifiers-key-matches-and-player-updates/ - Details the importance of the qualifiers, match dates, and coach Wiegman's perspective on squad building.
BBC Sport: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cwyxwyzy9wxo - Discusses potential squad changes, defensive challenges, and specific player availability.
Goal.com UK: https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/seven-new-lionesses-out-to-catch-sarina-wiegman-s-eye-and-earn-2027-women-s-world-cup-spots/bltb1c224d5651b6042 - Highlights emerging players and the impact of absences on squad selection.
England Football: https://www.englandfootball.com/england/womens-senior-team - Confirms fixture details and provides context on recent team achievements.
fourfourtwo: https://www.fourfourtwo.com/competition/lionesses-draw-spain-in-world-cup-qualifiers-what-does-it-mean - Mentions Spain as a qualifying group opponent.
Typeost: https://www.typeost.com/c/threads/euros-success-in-2025-are-england-lionesses-ready-to-tackle-2026-and-world-cup-qualifiers.5111/ - Provides commentary on recent team form and the limited time for preparation.
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