Everything you need to know about England women's football team and their crucial play-off matches against Ukraine.
The England women's national football team is navigating the tense European play-offs to secure a qualification spot for next summer's FIFA World Cup in Brazil, following a demanding initial qualifying group stage, according to information published by FF2 Futebol.
Under the guidance of manager Sarina Wiegman, the Lionesses must successfully overcome a final two-legged qualifying tie against Ukraine between late November and early December to confirm their tournament participation.
This decisive phase comes after England finished second behind world champions Spain in their opening group, forcing the squad into the European play-off rounds to chase their ultimate football goals.
England's road to Brazil and recent play-off results
Finishing behind Spain in the initial qualifying group meant the Lionesses had to navigate two rounds of play-offs to reach Brazil. First up, the squad faced Greece in a two-legged encounter.
After securing a 3-1 victory in Crete, the team returned home to Leicester and produced a clinical 5-0 display to seal an emphatic 8-1 aggregate win, booking their place in the final qualifying round.
Key dates and fixtures for the Ukraine tie
The Lionesses will face Ukraine in Round 2 of the World Cup qualifying play-offs, with the crucial two-legged tie taking place between 26 November and 5 December.
The first leg is planned on 26 November at a venue to be confirmed, with Ukraine unable to host matches at home amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. England will then face Ukraine at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 5 December at 5.30pm GMT.
Previous encounters between England and Ukraine
The two national sides are already familiar with one another, having met twice during the league phase of qualification before reaching this decisive play-off stage.
England previously won 6-1 away from home in a match played in Turkiye, before following up with a solid 3-0 victory at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do the Lionesses play next in the World Cup qualifiers?
The England women's national football team faces Ukraine in the final round of the European play-offs.
When are the England versus Ukraine play-off matches scheduled?
The two-legged tie takes place between 26 November and 5 December, with the second leg hosted at Wembley Stadium.
Why are the Lionesses playing in the play-offs?
Manager Sarina Wiegman's side finished second behind Spain in their initial qualifying group, requiring play-off rounds to reach the tournament in Brazil.
