England women’s national football team have been drawn against Greece women’s national football team in the first round of the European play-offs for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
The Lionesses failed to secure automatic qualification after finishing behind Spain women’s national football team in their qualifying group and must now navigate two knockout rounds to book their place at the tournament in Brazil.
England’s route to the World Cup
England will face Greece over two legs in round one of the play-offs.
If Sarina Wiegman’s side progress, they will meet the winners of the tie between Slovakia women’s national football team and Ukraine women’s national football team in round two.
The second-round fixture would begin with an away leg before returning to England for the decisive match.
The play-off matches are scheduled to take place across October, November and December, with exact dates yet to be announced.
Spain denied England automatic qualification
England appeared well placed to qualify automatically after winning five of their six group matches.
However, a heavy 4-0 defeat to Spain earlier this month proved costly, allowing the reigning world champions to finish top of the group and claim the sole automatic qualification spot.
As a result, the Lionesses must now take the longer route to Brazil through the play-offs.
Home nations discover their opponents
England are not the only British side still chasing a World Cup place.
Wales women’s national football team have been drawn against Albania, while Scotland women’s national football team will face the Czech Republic.
Meanwhile, Northern Ireland women’s national football team have been handed a difficult tie against Portugal.
The Republic of Ireland women’s national football team will begin their campaign against Kazakhstan.
Potential second-round opponents
Should the home nations progress, tougher challenges could await in the second round.
England could meet Slovakia or Ukraine, while Wales may face either Norway or Romania.
Scotland’s potential path includes a clash against Sweden or Lithuania, and Northern Ireland could be drawn against Iceland or Croatia.
Only teams that successfully navigate both rounds will secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Lionesses targeting another World Cup appearance
Despite the setback of missing out on direct qualification, England will enter the play-offs as strong favourites against Greece.
With a squad packed with international experience and major tournament pedigree, the Lionesses will be expected to advance and keep their hopes of competing in Brazil firmly on track.
The upcoming play-offs will now determine whether England can extend their run of appearances on the biggest stage in women’s football.
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