England women to host Iceland at Nottingham Forest in World Cup Qualifier

England’s women’s national team have confirmed Nottingham Forest’s City Ground as the venue for their first home FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifying match against Iceland on Saturday, March 7.

The match kicks off at 12.30pm GMT and will be a key early test in the Lionesses’ bid to reach the next World Cup in Brazil.

What lies ahead for England

This fixture is part of Group A3 in the European qualifying competition, which also includes Spain and Ukraine.

England begin their campaign with an away game against Ukraine on Tuesday, March 3, with the venue yet to be confirmed.

Later in the schedule is a high-profile home match against world champions Spain on Tuesday, April 14.

The Lionesses haven’t played at the City Ground since 1994, when they recorded a 6-0 victory over Belgium in a European Championship qualifier.

That match is remembered as one of England’s standout performances of the early women’s international era.

In Sarina’s words

England head coach Sarina Wiegman spoke about the decision to host the Iceland match at Nottingham.

“We are at the beginning of an important qualifying campaign. We want to be at our best and are really looking forward to getting started again,” the England head coach said.

“Iceland are a well organised, competitive side, so this will be a great test for us as we begin our journey toward the World Cup.

“We’re excited to play at Nottingham Forest. It has been a very long time since England women have appeared there, and it’s important for us to bring the Lionesses to different parts of the country.

“I know the fans, as always, will create a brilliant atmosphere for the players and give us fantastic support in this historic stadium.”

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The road to Brazil 2027

England’s qualifying campaign carries extra significance after the Lionesses successfully defended their European Championship title in 2025.

They beat world champions Spain on penalties in the final, underlining their status as one of the top teams in women’s football.

The Lionesses will hope to use home advantage and strong support to build momentum early in qualifying, with the match against Iceland an important stepping stone on the road to Brazil.

Tickets for the Iceland match at the City Ground go on sale to My England Football members from 22-28 January, with general sale from 29 January.

Broadcasters ITV Sport will show all of England’s qualifiers live.

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