Sarina Wiegman has named a 23-player England squad for April’s FIFA World Cup 2027 qualifiers, as the Lionesses prepare for two crucial fixtures: hosting world champions Spain at Wembley before travelling to Iceland in Reykjavik.
England head into the international window in strong form, having won both of their opening qualifiers.
Their campaign began with a commanding 6-1 victory over Ukraine, a game that showcased the attacking depth of the squad, with Alessia Russo and Jess Park both scoring doubles.
The second match, against Iceland at the City Ground, proved slightly more challenging, but England secured a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Lucy Bronze and Georgia Stanway, demonstrating the team’s ability to grind out results when required.
With a perfect record so far, England currently lead the group on goal difference alongside Spain, setting up what promises to be a highly competitive clash at Wembley.
For Wiegman, maintaining this momentum will be key as the Lionesses look to continue their flawless start to qualifying.
Historic Milestones
The April fixtures are particularly significant in England’s history. The clash with Spain will mark the Lionesses’ 499th international match, while the trip to Iceland will see the team reach the milestone of 500 games.
These landmark occasions will be celebrated with a series of tributes to the players and trailblazers who have shaped the women’s game in England, recognising the legacy upon which the current squad has been built.
“It’s an incredible achievement to reach 500 games,” Wiegman said.
“It connects us to every player who has contributed to the Lionesses over the years and reminds us of the responsibility we carry each time we pull on the shirt. These matches are about more than just qualification; they’re about honouring the history of this team and everyone who has helped build it.”
Surprise Call-Up
With several midfielders unavailable due to injury, including Ella Toone and Grace Clinton, a new face was widely expected in the squad and the surprise comes in the form of 17-year-old Erica Meg Parkinson.
The young midfielder currently plays for Portuguese first-division side Valadares Gaia and has progressed through the England pathway, earning her first senior call-up.
Relatively unknown in England, Parkinson only joined the national youth setup last year. She impressed during her early appearances, displaying maturity and professionalism beyond her years.
Born in Singapore to an English father and Japanese mother, Parkinson’s inclusion is a fascinating development for the Lionesses, and it will be intriguing to see how Wiegman plans to integrate her into the squad.
Adding to the excitement, Parkinson will celebrate her 18th birthday on the day England face Iceland, making it a memorable occasion for the youngster.
Beth Mead also returns to the squad after missing March’s qualifiers, providing an experienced attacking option, while Chelsea’s Aggie Beever-Jones, Manchester City’s Grace Clinton, and Manchester United’s Ella Toone will miss out due to injury.
Captain Leah Williamson has been included despite a recent hamstring issue, giving the squad both leadership and quality heading into two challenging fixtures.
“These games are important steps in our qualification journey,” Wiegman said.
“We started our campaign strongly with two good performances, and we want to continue that momentum. The squad has a blend of experience and youth, and it will be exciting to see how new players like Erica Parkinson can contribute to the team.”
Spain Showdown
England’s meeting with Spain will be the first since the UEFA EURO 2025 final, where the Lionesses secured back-to-back European titles.
Both teams currently have perfect records in qualifying, which means this clash could play a decisive role in determining who leads the group.
“Facing Spain at Wembley will be a fantastic challenge,” Wiegman said.
“They are a strong side, and we know it will be tough. But we are focused on performing at our highest level. The experience of playing in front of our fans at such a significant milestone makes it even more special.”
England will then travel to Reykjavik for their historic 500th match against Iceland. The squad will carry the pride of the milestone into the fixture, which is expected to be a motivating factor for both players and staff alike.
England Squad
Goalkeepers: Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), Anna Moorhouse (Orlando Pride), Ellie Roebuck (Aston Villa)
Defenders: Lucy Bronze (Chelsea), Jess Carter (Gotham), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Taylor Hinds (Arsenal), Maya Le Tissier (Manchester United), Esme Morgan (Washington Spirit), Leah Williamson (Arsenal), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal)
Midfielders: Laura Blindkilde Brown (Manchester City), Lucia Kendall (Aston Villa), Erica Meg Parkinson (Valadares Gaia), Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich), Keira Walsh (Chelsea)
Forwards: Freya Godfrey (London City Lionesses), Lauren Hemp (Manchester City), Lauren James (Chelsea), Chloe Kelly (Arsenal), Beth Mead (Arsenal), Jess Park (Manchester United), Alessia Russo (Arsenal)
