England returns to action with Brazil and Australia fixtures
The England women’s senior squad has been named for two high-profile matches later this month, marking the Lionesses’ return to competitive action since their landmark UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 triumph. Manager Sarina Wiegman has selected 25 players to face Brazil and Australia, kicking off a busy period as England re-enter the international stage under the Homecoming Series banner.
Two challenging opponents in a crucial window
In the first of four Homecoming Series internationals, England will host Brazil at the City of Manchester Stadium on Saturday 25 October (5:30pm BST). The match sees the South American champions provide a stern test as Wiegman’s side build towards World Cup qualification early next year. Five days later, England will travel to Pride Park Stadium in Derby to meet Australia on Tuesday 28 October (7pm GMT). This clash will be the teams’ first meeting since the dramatic 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney, when the Lionesses secured a memorable 3-1 victory over the Matildas.
Squad composition: continuity and fresh arrivals
Twenty players who were part of the EURO-winning squad retain their places, underscoring the squad’s continuity after a summer of success. Notable absentees due to injury include Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, and Leah Williamson, reflecting the ongoing injury considerations managers face during a packed schedule.
The announcement also features exciting new faces, with Katie Reid, Lucia Kendall, and Taylor Hinds receiving their first senior call-ups. These players have been capped through England’s pathway programs, highlighting the depth of talent now available to Wiegman’s backroom team. Additionally, Laura Blindkilde Brown and Missy Bo Kearns return to the squad, reinforcing the options available as England scheme increasingly into a high-pressing, possession-based approach.
What these matches mean for England
These fixtures are more than friendlies; they are an important step in testing the squad’s depth and blocking out tactical ideas ahead of World Cup qualification. Against Brazil, England will face a side renowned for technical quality and relentless pace, while Australia will pose different challenges, notably in transition play and set-piece dynamics. Wiegman has emphasised that the two opponents will test England in distinct ways, which is exactly the type of challenge needed as the team refines its game model.
Wiegman’s mindset heading into October and November
Speaking ahead of kick-off, Wiegman highlighted the importance of returning to home venues and the energy of a confident home crowd. “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. The coach also stressed that these matches are a vital part of preparations for the next phase of World Cup qualification, ensuring England stay on the front foot as they refine tactics and squad balance.
Ticket information and fan engagement
Fans are encouraged to secure tickets for both fixtures through the official ticketing page. The Homecoming Series presents an opportunity to celebrate back-to-back European triumphs and to see a squad that continues to evolve under one of the world’s leading women’s football coaches.
Looking ahead
As England begin this next chapter, the blend of experienced campaigners and rising stars will be key to sustaining success on multiple fronts. With a clear pathway toward ongoing World Cup qualification, the upcoming games against Brazil and Australia promise to deliver both intensity and insight into where the Lionesses are headed next.
