England Women Announce 25-Player Squad for Brazil and Australia Fixtures
England head coach Sarina Wiegman has named a 25-player squad for two important autumn fixtures as the Lionesses return to action for the first time since their historic UEFA Women’s EURO triumphs. The pair of matches, part of the Homecoming Series, will pit England against South American champions Brazil and then Australia, offering a stern test ahead of the 2025 World Cup qualifiers.
Two High-Profile Tests in October
The opening match will see England host Brazil at the City of Manchester Stadium on Saturday, 25 October, with kick-off at 5:30pm BST. The second fixture takes place at Pride Park Stadium in Derby, where the Lionesses will meet Australia on Tuesday, 28 October at 7:00pm GMT. Both games provide a platform for fans to celebrate back-to-back UEFA Women’s EURO success and support from home crowds as the team builds momentum for future campaigns.
Squad Details and Key Selections
Out of the EURO-winning group, 20 players retain their places, underscoring the depth and experience within the squad. Notable absences due to injury include captain Leah Williamson and attacking teammates Lauren Hemp and Lauren James. Wiegman explained that injuries necessitated changes but stressed the importance of continuity and opportunity for others coming through the England pathway.
In a welcome development, three players earn call-ups for the first time: Katie Reid, Lucia Kendall, and Taylor Hinds. Each has featured for England across various levels, signaling the coaching staff’s confidence in them to make the step to senior international football. Additionally, Laura Blindkilde Brown and Missy Bo Kearns return to the squad, adding further competition and options for the midfield and forward lines.
Why These Opponents Matter
Brazil’s national team brings a distinctive blend of technical quality and physical challenge, providing a stern test for Wiegman’s system. Their clash in Manchester is a reminder of a growing competitive landscape in women’s football outside Europe, and England will be eager to demonstrate their adaptability and resilience against a side that has consistently been among the world’s best.
Australia represents a different kind of challenge, often noted for its athletic pace and direct play. The upcoming encounter in Derby gives both teams a chance to readjust after a memorable 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney, where England triumphed 3-1. Reigniting that rivalry offers a valuable gauge ahead of a busy cycle toward World Cup qualification early next year.
From the Coach’s Desk
Wiegman spoke of the excitement surrounding a return to home support and the opportunity to continue capitalising on the team’s recent success. “It’s great to be back and we’re really looking forward to playing in front of our fantastic home support again after such an incredible summer in Switzerland,” she said. “In Brazil and Australia we’ll be facing two top opponents who will each test us in different ways, which is exactly the kind of challenge we need as we prepare for World Cup qualification starting early next year.”
What This Means for England’s Path Forward
With World Cup qualification on the near horizon, these fixtures serve as a crucial testing ground for squad depth and tactical evolution. The inclusion of new faces suggests a broader pool of players is being prepared for sustained success, while the return to fitness of key players will help England mix experimentation with proven competition maturity. The Homecoming Series will also give the public a chance to celebrate a remarkable run, underscored by a strong period of development under Wiegman’s leadership.
Ticket Information
Tickets for both fixtures are available via the official ticketing page. Fans in attendance will be able to cheer the Lionesses as they attempt to extend their rich vein of form and reinforce England’s status among the world’s elite in women’s football.
