Wembley Stadium is completely sold out as England prepare to face China PR in their latest international friendly. The occasion will be emotional as the Lionesses honour Fran Kirby’s retirement before kick-off while celebrating the team’s UEFA EURO 2025 triumph.
Fran Kirby Honoured at Wembley
Before the match begins, England will pay tribute to Fran Kirby following her retirement from international football in June. FA Chair Debbie Hewitt, along with Kirby’s father and brother, will take part in a special presentation that acknowledges Kirby’s 77 caps, 19 goals and her defining influence during the EURO 2022 victory.
Kirby will also carry the UEFA EURO 2025 trophy onto the pitch, giving supporters a moment to celebrate both her international career and England’s most recent European title.
The squad will warm up in WWC2035 tops to show support for the UK and Ireland’s Women’s World Cup bid.
Walsh Ready to Lead
With senior defenders absent, teammates have joked with Keira Walsh about taking the armband. Walsh explained how her leadership style differs from that of Leah Williamson.
"I tend to have more one-to-one conversations with younger players. I try to lead through how I play and my consistency."
Walsh said captaining England would be a proud moment, but stressed it would not change who she is as a person or a player.
A Different Challenge From China
Sarina Wiegman believes it is essential for England to face non-European opposition as preparation for the 2027 World Cup qualifiers.
China are very disciplined with a good structure. They can play out or go more direct. We expect them to challenge us tactically. We hope to have more of the ball and improve our own game."
England’s recent record against China includes the 6–1 victory at the 2023 World Cup. However, Wiegman expects a more controlled tactical contest at Wembley.
A New-Look Back Line
With Williamson, Bright, Greenwood and Carter all unavailable, England will field a completely fresh centre-back pairing. Wiegman views this as a positive opportunity.
"It gives opportunities for players to show themselves. They deserve the chance because they have shown good performances."
The match against China and the next fixture against Ghana will be used to build new partnerships and give minutes to players pushing for selection. Wiegman also addressed the unusual red cards in the last two matches.
"I hope a situation like that does not occur. You take the most out of the game when it stays 11 against 11."
Goalkeeper Situation
Manchester City’s Khiara Keating has withdrawn with a groin injury, joining Hannah Hampton on the list of absentees. This leaves room for a reshuffled goalkeeping group.
Anna Moorhouse appears likely to make her senior England debut. Aston Villa’s Ellie Roebuck has been called up for the first time since her stroke in 2024, a significant personal milestone after fearing she might never play again. Brighton’s Sophie Baggaley is also available and could make her first appearance for the Lionesses.
Match Stats
• England have won two of their five meetings with China in all competitions.
• This is China’s second away game in England after a 2–1 defeat in Manchester in 2015.
• Wiegman’s teams have scored 14 goals in their last two matches against China.
• England have kept a clean sheet in seven of their last eight home games.
• China have lost their last six games against the world’s current top five, conceding 21 goals.
• England’s opponents have received red cards in back-to-back matches for the first time in more than 110 games.
• Sarina Wiegman is seeking her 50th win as England manager in what will be her 73rd match in charge.
• Lucia Kendall impressed on debut against Australia with 50+ passes, 5+ shots and 5+ chances created.
• Freya Godfrey could make her debut after four goal involvements for London City Lionesses this season.
A Wembley Occasion
A sold-out Wembley will witness both celebration and experimentation. England aim to build momentum, assess emerging partnerships and pay tribute to one of the country’s finest players. With Kirby’s farewell moment, a reshaped squad and a challenging opponent in China, the stage is set for an important and emotional afternoon of football.
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