Lionesses will face Greece in World Cup play-offs
5 verified4 unconfirmed1 contested
Both sources report that England will face Greece in the first round of the 2027 Women's World Cup play-offs. The Lionesses must win two rounds of home-and-away ties to qualify for the tournament in Brazil. If England advances, they will face the winner of Slovakia versus Ukraine in the final play-off round. Other home nations also learned their opponents: Wales play Albania, Scotland face the Czech Republic, Northern Ireland take on Portugal, and the Republic of Ireland play Kazakhstan. Play-off rounds are scheduled for later in 2026. Spain finished top of England's qualifying group to directly qualify, alongside holders Spain, Denmark, France, and Germany.
What’s verified
England will play Greece in round one of the Women's World Cup play-offs.
If England wins, they will face either Slovakia or Ukraine in round two.
Wales play Albania, Scotland face the Czech Republic, Northern Ireland take on Portugal, and the Republic of Ireland play Kazakhstan in round one.
The play-offs consist of two rounds of home-and-away ties.
The 2027 Women's World Cup will be held in Brazil.
Where accounts differ
Source 1 states play-off matches will take place in October, November and December without specific dates, while source 2 provides exact windows: round one from October 7-13 and round two from November 26 to December 5, 2026.
Not yet confirmed
Only one source reports that Kazakhstan is ranked 100th in the world.
Only one source includes quotes from England manager Sarina Wiegman.
Only one source notes that holders Spain, Denmark, France, and Germany have already qualified directly for the World Cup.
The exact dates for England's fixture against Greece have not been specified beyond the general play-off windows.
Key figures
Sarina Wiegman (England manager)
Carla Ward (Republic of Ireland manager)
Rhian Wilkinson (Wales manager)
Gemma Grainger (Norway coach, mentioned as former Wales coach)
Sources: BBC News, Sky Sports
