Key Events

In a pivotal playoff semi-final, England prepares to face Greece in the first leg of their Women's World Cup qualifier on Friday in Heraklion, Crete. Sarina Wiegman has made two defensive changes from the previous match against Ukraine, bringing back Leah Williamson and Alex Greenwood in place of Jess Carter and Niamh Charles.

Team Line-ups:

• Greece (4-3-3): Petaloti; Giannaka, Gkouni, Markou, Paterna; Drakogiannaki, Brame, Moraitou; Sarri, Papatheodorou, Brouksair.
• England (4-3-3): Hampton; Le Tissier, Williamson, Morgan, Greenwood; Blindkilde Brown, Walsh, Stanway; James, Russo, Hemp.

Referee: Martina Molinaro (Italy).

Historical Context The last time England failed to qualify for the World Cup was in 2003, a situation that seems unthinkable now. They were drawn in a tough group with Germany, the Netherlands, and Portugal, with only one team advancing.

Player Spotlight Ella Toone has been recalled after an injury to Lucy Bronze. Wiegman praised Toone for her positive response to being left out initially, emphasizing her determination to return stronger. Toone has made 69 caps, scoring 24 goals, including pivotal ones in the Euro 2022 final and 2023 World Cup semi-final.

Looking Ahead England must secure a win against Greece, followed by a potential matchup with either Slovakia or Ukraine to ensure a spot in the 2027 World Cup. The stakes are high, and while England is heavily favored, the playoffs are fraught with unpredictability. Kick-off is set for 5:30 PM BST.