The Lionesses will compete in a challenging group for the 2027 UEFA Women's Nations League, facing familiar opponents and aiming for Olympic qualification.

The UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland, was the stage for an important moment in women's football as the draw for the 2027 UEFA Women’s Nations League took place. England's national team, the Lionesses, found themselves in League A, Group 2, where they will face France, Austria, and Portugal. This draw marks the beginning of a new campaign that will see each team play home and away matches across three international windows in 2027.

England's head coach, Sarina Wiegman, expressed her enthusiasm about the draw, noting the high quality of their opponents. France, a team with a strong history and boasting players from top clubs, poses a significant challenge. Wiegman highlighted the excitement of facing a world-class team that continuously pushes the boundaries of competition. The Lionesses have encountered France in past tournaments, and Wiegman acknowledges that these matches are crucial for the team's development.

Portugal, a familiar rival from previous competitions, adds another layer of complexity to the group. The Lionesses faced Portugal in the last Nations League campaign, resulting in a tie and a victory. Wiegman emphasized that Portugal's ability to adapt their playing style makes them a formidable opponent. The Lionesses will need to be at their best to navigate the challenges posed by a team that can switch from possession-based play to a more direct approach.

Austria will also be a key adversary, having tested England in recent encounters. The Lionesses last faced Austria in the early part of 2024, and Wiegman is aware of the improvements made by their opponents since then. Each match in this group is expected to be competitive, with all teams striving for a top position to secure a place in the Nations League semi-finals and the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

The competition will take place in multiple phases, with the first matches scheduled between February and March 2027. The semi-finals are set for October 2027, followed by the final in late November to early December, marking an exciting year for women's football.