It seems like just yesterday we were watching England lift the Euros trophy following a sensational summer of sport. Fast forward a year and now the Lionesses have gone down under as they look to add the Women’s World Cup to their collection.
The tournament kicks off in Australia and New Zealand today and while the USA are the favourites, England will fancy their chance. Can they keep up their hot streak? Ahead of the competition, we’ve taken a look at their chances.
Can England win the 2023 Women’s World Cup?
Why not?! England claimed their first ever major trophy last summer and after reaching the World Cup semi-finals four years ago, they’ll be looking to go further this time around. The addition of the USA makes the prospect trickier than the Euros but in coach Sarina Weigman, they’re in capable hands.
Sadly for the Lionesses, Euros golden boot winner Beth Mead misses out through injury while legendary striker Ellen White has retired. In their place, Alessia Russo and Rachel Daly will be looking to step up, aided by bright young stars such as Lauren James and Lauren Hemp.
When are England playing?
Hosts New Zealand kick things off against Norway today before England get their tournament underway on Saturday. The Lionesses will have one eye on the final on Sunday 20th August – but they’ll need to get out of Group D first.
- England v Haiti – 10:30am on Saturday 22nd July
- England v Denmark – 9:30am on Friday 28th July
- England v China – 12:00pm on Tuesday 1st August
Who are England’s competition?
The clear favourites for the trophy are the USA, who have won the last two World Cups. Luckily for England, they’re on opposite sides of the draw so they can’t meet until the final.
The Americans have Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan in their ranks, who shared the golden boot with White back in 2019. They should comfortably sail through their group ahead of Portugal, Vietnam and the Netherlands, who they beat in the final last time out.
Elsewhere, Spain will be in the mix, with two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas leading their attack. Germany will want to go one better after losing to England in the Euros final, while France could be in with a shout.
Sweden have reached the semis of the last two major tournaments while Australia have home advantage and could spring a surprise.
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