Inspiring the next generation of Lionesses

Anticipation is building for England Women’s FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifier against Ukraine this Tuesday, 9 June 2026 (8pm kick-off) at Hill Dickinson Stadium. A fixture that reflects just how quickly the women’s game is growing, both locally and globally.

The match will see the Lionesses become the first England team to play at Everton’s new waterfront home. It offers a powerful moment of visibility for the women’s game in Liverpool. For young girls across the region, this is a rare chance to see elite international football on their doorstep. To even imagine themselves on that same stage in the future.

A game on the rise

Recent success in the women’s game has reinforced that sense of possibility. Manchester City’s dominant 4–0 victory in the 2026 Women’s FA Cup final at Wembley showed the increasing profile and quality of the domestic game.

At the same time, the road to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup is creating more opportunities than ever for players to compete at the highest level. International football is no longer confined to occasional tournaments. It now forms part of a packed, year‑round calendar featuring qualifiers, continental competitions and global events.

For aspiring players, this matters. It means clearer pathways, greater visibility, and more chances to progress through the game. Alongside senior fixtures, FIFA is investing in the next generation through major youth competitions. This includes the U‑20 Women’s World Cup (Poland 2026) and the U‑17 Women’s World Cup (Morocco 2026). These tournaments provide vital experience for young players. They show that the pathway from grassroots football to the global stage is becoming stronger and more accessible than ever.

Where inspiration begins

Back in Liverpool, events like the Lionesses’ visit highlight the city’s growing role in that journey. Hill Dickinson Stadium is set to host matches at UEFA EURO 2028 and is included in the UK’s bid for the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The region is becoming an increasingly important hub for the women’s game.

Everton’s event guide will help supporters plan their visit, with information on travel, tickets, accessibility and matchday activities. You can still purchase tickets for the fixture here.

But beyond the logistics, this fixture represents something bigger: an opportunity to inspire the next generation. Watching England play in Merseyside could be the moment that sparks a lifelong love of football for young girls in schools across the city, or even the beginning of a future career in the game.