England Women entered 2026 looking to build on their historic European Championship triumph and secure a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
After successfully defending their European crown in Switzerland by defeating Spain on penalties in the final, Sarina Wiegman’s side turned their attention to World Cup qualification. However, despite making a strong start to their campaign, the Lionesses narrowly missed out on automatic qualification and must now navigate the play-offs later this year.
Here’s everything you need to know about England Women’s fixtures, results and how to watch the Lionesses in 2026.
The Lionesses looked on course to qualify directly for the 2027 Women’s World Cup after winning their opening four qualifying matches, including an impressive victory over Spain at Wembley Stadium.
Heading into the decisive away clash against Spain on June 5, England required only a draw to secure automatic qualification.
Instead, they suffered a difficult night in Mallorca as Spain recorded a convincing 4-0 victory — England’s heaviest defeat under Wiegman and their biggest loss in 17 years.
That result allowed Spain to move above England in the standings, and hopes of reclaiming top spot disappeared when Iceland failed to take points from La Roja, losing 6-1.
Despite finishing the campaign with a win over Ukraine, England were forced into the play-off route.
| Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| February 2026 | Spain | Win |
| March 2026 | Ukraine | Win |
| April 2026 | Iceland | Win |
| May 2026 | Ukraine | Win |
| June 5, 2026 | Spain | Lost 0-4 |
| June 2026 | Ukraine | Win |
The Lionesses now face a two-stage play-off process to qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
England will take on Greece in a two-legged tie during the October international window.
The fixture will mark the first-ever meeting between the two nations in senior women’s international football.
If England overcome Greece, they will advance to the final qualifying round.
Potential opponents include:
Those decisive matches will be played across the November and December international windows.
| Date | Opponent | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| October 2026 | Greece (1st Leg) | World Cup Play-Off |
| October 2026 | Greece (2nd Leg) | World Cup Play-Off |
| November/December 2026* | Slovakia or Ukraine | Final Play-Off Round |
*Subject to England defeating Greece.
England Women’s matches are primarily broadcast by the UK’s major free-to-air broadcasters.
Viewers can watch Lionesses fixtures live on:
Occasionally, matches involving fellow home nations may be shown by the BBC due to existing broadcasting agreements.
Fans in the United States can follow England Women’s matches through several broadcasters, including:
Coverage may vary depending on the competition and broadcasting rights.
Yes.
Although England missed out on automatic qualification after finishing behind Spain, they remain among the strongest teams left in the play-off draw.
Victory over Greece would move the Lionesses one step away from Brazil, with either Slovakia or Ukraine likely standing between Wiegman’s side and another World Cup appearance.
Given England’s recent success at major tournaments, they will remain strong favourites to secure qualification and continue their pursuit of global glory in 2027.
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