England begin their FIFA Women's World Cup qualifying campaign against Ukraine, aiming to establish early momentum in a demanding League A group that also includes Spain and Iceland. The fixture will be played in Turkey, where Ukraine are hosting their home matches due to the ongoing war in their country.
While the warm temperatures and strong training facilities in Turkey have supported on-pitch preparation, England's build-up has not been entirely smooth. Recent conflict in the Middle East has raised safety and security concerns, adding a layer of uncertainty despite ongoing assurances and close monitoring from authorities.
Speaking ahead of the match, England head coach Sarina Wiegman, who is beginning her first FIFA Women's World Cup qualifying campaign as England manager, said, "Of course, we think about that because it is really sad. We want Ukraine to be able to play in their home country, so it's really sad. What they have ahead of them in their country is horrible, so we hope that this game unites a bit, and it's competitive, and Ukraine can show itself to the world in another way where football unites and brings some joy."
She also addressed security concerns, adding, "We've had assurances. We're in close contact with the government, as well as with the people here who are responsible. You don't want war, so that makes it really hard. When our government thinks it's not safe, then we'll go back. At this moment, we don't have signals of that."
On the pitch, England expects Ukraine to pose a direct, potentially dangerous challenge. Ukraine were promoted to League A from the 2025 Nations League and appointed a new head coach in January, which could bring tactical unpredictability. They are particularly threatening on the counterattack, with pace in wide areas.
England is expected to dominate possession and apply sustained pressure while remaining disciplined defensively. Sharp ball movement, aggressive pressing and careful management of transitions will be central to England's approach.
The Lionesses boast an outstanding record in World Cup qualifying. England are unbeaten in their last 46 qualifiers, winning 42 and drawing four, and conceding just eight goals during that run. Under Wiegman, England won all ten matches in their previous qualifying campaign with an aggregate score of 80-0.
Ukraine are still searching for its first appearance at a Women's World Cup. Although they have consistently finished in the top three of their qualifying groups, progression to the main tournament has remained elusive. With England and Spain in the group, avoiding relegation to League B will be a key objective.
England have been boosted by the return of captain Leah Williamson, who is back in the squad after a lengthy absence with a knee injury. Hannah Hampton, Alex Greenwood and Lauren James have also returned, while Poppy Pattinson has earned her first senior call-up. Ella Toone remains sidelined with a hip problem.
England enters the match ranked 30 places above Ukraine in the FIFA World Rankings, underlining the gap in depth and experience. However, the context surrounding the fixture ensures it carries significance beyond the result.
The occasion will also be marked by England wearing black armbands in memory of former Lioness Lynda Hale, who played and scored in the first-ever official England women's international in 1972.
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