Fri May 30 18:00:00 UTC 2025: **Lionesses Face Portugal at Wembley Amidst Earps Retirement and Euro 2025 Preparations**

**Wembley, England** – The England Lionesses host Portugal at Wembley Stadium tonight in a crucial Nations League group stage match. The game marks England’s first outing since the shocking retirement of goalkeeper Mary Earps earlier this week.

England currently sit second in Group A3, trailing Spain by two points. Victory against Portugal and then Spain on Tuesday could see the Lionesses qualify for the Nations League finals and secure a more favorable path to the World Cup.

Manager Sarina Wiegman has selected an expanded squad for these final Nations League games, using them as an opportunity to assess players before naming her Euro 2025 squad next week. “We didn’t want to leave any players out who are still in contention for the Euros,” Wiegman stated.

The game comes at a pivotal time as the team prepares to defend their Euro title this summer, and follows the withdrawal of Millie Bright from the squad, citing mental and physical exhaustion. “For anybody to speak out about mental health is a brave thing to do,” Captain Leah Williamson said in support of Bright, whose place in the squad has been filled by Lotte Wubben-Moy. Ella Toone, Alessia Russo are also unavailable due to minor calf injuries. There is positive news about Lauren James, who is on track to feature at Euro 2025.

The team will be debuting their new home kit for the first time tonight.

Former England players have been quick to address Earps’ departure, with Hannah Hampton touted as the ready-made replacement. “She has to be flawless,” former striker Ellen White stated, adding she needs “to stand 10 feet tall now and say ‘I am England’s number one, I am going to absolutely love and enjoy this Euros and prove that I am the best goalkeeper’.”

Kick-off is scheduled for [Implied Time – Check original text for match time]. The game will be broadcast on BBC Radio 5 Live with pre-match build-up starting at 19:00 BST. Fans can also engage with the broadcast using #bbcfootball on social media.

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