Fri Apr 04 18:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Lionesses Roar Towards Euros as UK Wins 2035 Women’s World Cup Bid

**Bristol, England –** England’s Lionesses face Belgium tonight at Ashton Gate in their third Women’s Nations League group game, boosted by the news that the UK will host the 2035 Women’s World Cup. The match, a sell-out, kicks off at 8pm BST and will be broadcast live on BBC Radio 5 Live.

Manager Sarina Wiegman expressed her excitement about the World Cup bid, stating it’s a “really exciting” development. This will be the second time the World Cup is held in the home nations, following the 1966 men’s tournament. The win adds to England’s momentum as they prepare for the upcoming Women’s Euros in Switzerland, just 89 days away.

England enters the match on the heels of a 1-0 victory against Spain, following an opening 1-1 draw with Portugal. They currently share the top spot in Group A3. Belgium, on the other hand, sits at the bottom of the group after two losses. While England secured a resounding 6-1 win over Belgium in the Arnold Clark Cup last year, Wiegman acknowledges recent encounters have been more challenging.

Tonight’s game presents a crucial opportunity for Wiegman to assess her squad and finalize her starting XI for the Euros. Several key players, including Georgia Stanway, Alex Greenwood, and Lauren Hemp, are recovering from knee injuries and remain sidelined. Chloe Kelly is also out with a foot injury, while Fran Kirby is a doubt. However, Beth Mead returns to the starting lineup tonight.

England’s lineup features Hampton in goal, with Bronze, Williamson, Bright, and Charles in defence. Clinton and Walsh will take on midfield roles, supported by Toone, Mead, Russo, and James in attack.

Belgium, making two changes to their previous lineup, will counter with Evrard in goal, Janssens, Tysiak, Iliano, and Cayman in defense. Philtjens, Vanhaevermaet, Missipo, Teulings, Eurlings and Toloba will complete the team.

The match marks another step in England’s preparations for the Euros, where they aim to defend their title. The Lionesses’ performance tonight will be closely watched as they continue their quest for European glory.

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