Friday night saw the English team surveying Brisbane Stadium in anticipation of their opening match of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. The tournament, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, takes place from 20 July to 20 August and will feature comprehensive coverage on BBC TV, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds and the Sport Newes Center website and app.
As England readies to go head-to-head with Haiti, team captain Millie Bright shares that the Lionesses are “itching to begin” their World Cup campaign. The first encounter in Group D for the reigning European champions is slated for 10:30 BST at Brisbane Stadium on Saturday, followed by matches against Denmark and China.
While England seeks to secure its maiden Women’s World Cup win, Haiti prepares to make its tournament debut.
“The feeling of excitement heightens as the game is just around the corner,” Bright mentioned. She added that the team is keenly awaiting the start of the official tournament, as they were closely following the opening night matches.
Sarina Wiegman, who previously steered England through an unbeaten 30-match streak, will lead the team, seeking her second World Cup final after her 2019 experience with the Netherlands. Wiegman expressed hope for winning the Cup, asserting that many countries have the potential to claim the title.
Fourth-ranked England, considered one of the tournament favourites, expects fierce competition from the United States, targeting their third consecutive championship. This World Cup follows England’s landmark achievement of capturing their first women’s major trophy at the home European Championship last year.
However, England’s preparation has not been without challenges. Conversations regarding Millie Bright’s selection of FIFA-approved armbands and players’ dissatisfaction over discussions with the Football Association concerning performance-linked bonuses have taken the spotlight. Injuries have also ruled out key players like Leah Williamson, Beth Mead, and Fran Kirby.
Bright, who underwent knee surgery in April, was a concern but Wiegman confirmed she is “absolutely ready to go” against Haiti. “Injuries, unfortunately, are a part of football and we have to push ahead,” Bright added.
On the other side, Haiti, led by Nicolas Delepine for a year now, celebrates their first World Cup qualification, despite being ranked significantly lower than England. This match marks the first competitive encounter between the two teams.
While England has been struggling with scoring in their last three games, Wiegman remains confident that her team will shine in the opening game against Haiti.
Rachel Brown-Finnis, a football expert from Sport Newes Center, who will predict the outcomes of all 64 matches of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, notes that England needs to overcome its goal drought. She predicts a 2-0 victory for England over Haiti, but emphasizes the need for the team to gain confidence for the upcoming matches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 England vs Haiti
When and where will England’s opening match of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 take place?
The match is scheduled for 10:30 BST on Saturday at Brisbane Stadium, Australia.
Who is leading the England team in the Women’s World Cup 2023?
The England team is led by manager Sarina Wiegman and captain Millie Bright.
Who are England’s opponents in the Group D opener and their subsequent group stage matches?
England will face Haiti in the Group D opener. Their subsequent matches will be against Denmark and China.
What is the significance of this World Cup for England and Haiti respectively?
England is seeking to win their first Women’s World Cup while Haiti is making their debut in the tournament.
What has been the concern about England’s preparation for the World Cup?
The preparation has been marred by news off the pitch, including debates over Millie Bright’s choice of FIFA-sanctioned armbands and players’ dissatisfaction over discussions with the Football Association concerning performance-related bonuses. Additionally, there are injury concerns with key players.
Who are some key absentees from the England squad due to injuries?
Euro 2022 captain Leah Williamson, Ballon d’Or runner-up Beth Mead, and Chelsea playmaker Fran Kirby are all ruled out due to injuries.
What recent struggles has the England team been facing?
The team has not scored in their last three games, which is a concern as they head into the tournament.
Who will be predicting the outcomes of the matches in the World Cup 2023?
Rachel Brown-Finnis, a football expert from Sport Newes Center, will predict the outcomes of all 64 matches of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
More about FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 England vs Haiti
- FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023
- England Women’s National Team
- Haiti Women’s National Team
- Sarina Wiegman
- Millie Bright
- BBC Sport
- Sport Newes Center
- Rachel Brown-Finnis
8 comments
Not an England fan but good luck to them. Also props to Haiti for their first World Cup!
Really hope Wiegman can repeat her 2019 magic. Interesting times for women’s football!
can’t wait for the match!! C’mon England!!! Let’s bag the World cup this time!!
Being hosted here in Aus and NZ. Buzz is amazing, wish we could all be in the stadium though.
I’m just so proud of our team… we’re the underdogs but we’ve come so far. Delepine has done a great job leading our girls!
Been following the Lionesses for years now. This could be our year, just need to break that goal drought. fingers crossed.
Absolutely gutted for Kirby. But Millie Bright’s gonna be a rock in our defence. Watch out, Haiti!
Bit worried about the injuries though… losing Leah Williamson and Fran Kirby is tough. Hoping Millie’s fit for the game!