By Basant El-Faramawy
England have been drawn against France, Austria, and Portugal in Group A2 of the upcoming Women's Nations League, with the draw taking place in Nyon, Switzerland.
Wiegman reacts to tough group
England manager Sarina Wiegman described France as a world-class team with quality, power, and technique, noting several players compete in the Women's Super League. She said the challenge will make England better. Regarding Portugal, Wiegman recalled previous meetings before the last European Championship, noting Portugal's ability to switch styles and their quality players.
Tournament format and qualification implications
The third edition of the Nations League will serve as part of the qualification pathway for the 2028 Olympic Games and Euro 2029. The four League A group winners advance to semi-finals in October 2027, followed by a final to decide the champions. All ties are played over two legs across three international windows in February-March, April, and June 2027.
Other home nations' draws
Scotland were drawn in Group A4 alongside Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden. The Republic of Ireland face Spain, Norway, and Switzerland in Group A1. Wales will play Denmark, Italy, and Iceland in Group A3, while Northern Ireland are in Group B3 with Poland, Finland, and Belarus.
Full league composition
The draw also set the groups for Leagues B and C. League B includes groups featuring Serbia, Belgium, Albania, Romania; Ukraine, Czechia, Greece, Lithuania; Poland, Finland, Northern Ireland, Belarus; and Slovenia, Türkiye, Hungary, Kosovo. League C comprises six groups with teams such as Slovakia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Gibraltar; Latvia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Liechtenstein; Israel, Faroe Islands, North Macedonia, Andorra; Luxembourg, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Estonia; Malta, Moldova, Cyprus, San Marino; and Montenegro, Kazakhstan, Armenia. Fixture dates and venues will be confirmed later.
