Women’s World Cup 2023

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      Forgotten Germany World Cup star announces retirement at 32 after a year unemployed

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      A FORMER Germany international has announced his retirement at the age of 32.The left-back is hanging up his boots after 278 Bundesliga appearances and seven senior caps with the German national team. A former Germany international has retired at the age of 32Credit: Getty – ContributorIn fact, he was part of the 2018 World Cup squad and started in the first match of the group stage against Mexico.However, the defender didn’t see any more action in Russia as he was benched for the other two games against Sweden and South Korea and Germany failed to make the knockout stages.A year earlier, however, he was part of the team that won the Confederations Cup and played a whole match in the group stage against Cameroon.However, his career didn’t get rolling after that as he found himself as a free agent for over a year after leaving his final club Hertha Berlin.Read More on FootballThat is none other than Marvin Plattenhardt, who spent nine years at Hertha since his arrival from Nurnberg in 2014.Plattenhardt received offers this past year from various countries around the world, such as Italy, Turkey, the US and even England.However, the full-back preferred to call time on his 13-year career and insists he has no regrets.Plattenhardt told BILD: “Now the point has come where I say: ‘Finished!’ I’m hanging up my boots. Most read in BundesligaBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Between the summer of 2023 and the end of January 2024 there were a few talks with clubs in various countries, but the overall package was not suitable for me in terms of my family. I just didn’t want to do that.”And when you’ve been out for a while, it gets more and more difficult these days. Man Utd wages 2024-25 revealed”It’s crazy when you see how many names, including top-class players, are still on the list of players without a club. “I didn’t want to continue at all costs. So I’ve now made this decision for myself and I’m absolutely fine with it.“A wonderful and great time. When I look back on my career, I can say that all my childhood dreams have come true.”Marvin Plattenhardt decided to retire as a free agent after his exit from Hertha Berlin a year agoCredit: Getty – PoolPlattenhardt had offers from England before deciding to retireCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      VAR ruins football & must be ditched, says 1966 World Cup hero Sir Geoff Hurst – so would it have ruled out THAT goal?

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      VAR is ruining football and must go, according to Sir Geoff Hurst, scorer of the most controversial goal in history. But England’s 1966 World Cup hat-trick hero says goal-line technology, which may have ruled out his second strike, should stay.Sir Geoff Hurst’s hat-trick secured England the 1966 World CupCredit: ColorsportSir Geoff says goal-line technology, which may have ruled out his second strike, should stayHowever he thinks VAR is ruining football and called it a ‘joke’Credit: ITNThe 82-year-old insisted he is a fan of modern tech but called VAR a “joke” that delays the game and stops fans from properly celebrating a goal.He said: “They are making more bad decisions now and you don’t want to see people take ages to make a decision. “It’s ruining the spectacle, and the fans can’t cheer.“It’s actually spoiling the game.”read more on footballDebate still rages over whether Sir Geoff’s second goal against West Germany in the 1966 World Cup Final at Wembley did actually cross the line.And 44 years later he was in South Africa to witness Frank Lampard’s 2010 World Cup goal against the Germans being famously ruled out, despite being well over the line.Sir Geoff recalled: “I was the opposite side to the linesman and I could see the ball bounce halfway between the goal-line and the back of the net.“That was the most disgraceful decision we’ve seen in football and then they introduced goal-line technology.”Most read in FootballHe predicts big things for Gareth Southgate’s boys at the Euros next month — especially Jude Bellingham.He said: “The bunch of young players are the best we’ve had since 1966. England legend Sir Geoff Hurst reveals his damning thoughts on VAR“We’ve got quality players in all positions and his biggest issue is he can only pick 11 of them.“If you have to pick one player out, I would say Jude Bellingham.“He is doing astonishingly well for a 20-year-old. “He is in the same category as people like George Best and Bobby Charlton.”Sir Geoff revealed he uses his iPad to watch Match of the Day on BBC iPlayer — but skips the post-match analysis.He said: “I think they spend too much time on punditry, which is just one person’s opinion. “There are some awful commentators who don’t know what to say and so they just waffle on.”The football legend — the last survivor from the 1966 triumph — is now encouraging other older folk to learn digital skills to improve their quality of life.Sir Geoff, who teamed up with BT and AbilityNet, said: “I do internet banking and use the Trainline app to buy tickets. “I use technology to keep up with family, to send photos and we have a WhatsApp group called Family Bantz.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But if I’ve got an issue with something, I go to my children or grand-children — it’s as simple as that.“And if I get something that could be a scam I bin it.” More

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      Cesar Lusi Menotti dies aged 85: Ex-Barcelona & Argentina manager who led his country to World Cup win in 1978 has died

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      LEGENDARY former Argentina and Barcelona manager Cesar Luis Menotti has died aged 85.The iconic gaffer, who led his country to their first ever World Cup win in 1978, had been in hospital for a month with severe anemia.Cesar Luis Menotti blended tactics, philosophy and politics to lead Argentina to the World Cup in 1978Credit: PA:Empics SportFormer Argentina football team coach Cesar Luis Menotti in 2019Credit: AFPMenotti, who would smoke throughout matches, chats to Argentina captain Daniel Passarella in 1980Credit: GettyThe former world champion coach speaking with Argentina legend Lionel Messi (right) in 2019Credit: GettyThe Rosario-born tactician guided Argentina to a 3-1 victory over the Netherlands, as extra-time goals from tournament top scorer Mario Kempes and team-mate Daniel Bertoni sealed the win 46 years ago.The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed his death today in a statement.It read: “The Argentine Football Association regrets to report with great sadness the death of Cesar Luis Menotti, current Director of National Teams and former World Champion coach of Argentina.”Last month, Menotti was admitted to hospital with severe anemia and underwent surgery for phlebitis. Read More in FootballMenotti was the mastermind behind Argentina’s first ever global triumph as they got their hands on the the most iconic trophy in football.As the manager of La Albiceleste, he took a team that had limped out of the 1974 World Cup in Germany and turned them into world beaters.Tributes have since poured in for the World Cup winning coach.President of the AFA, Chiqui Tapia, posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Dear Flaco, it is an immense pain to have to say goodbye to you. You left us a lot during your time in the national team and in football.Most read in Football”Without a doubt, your passage to immortality will be with the best memories of all of us who love the round. “I send a warm hug on behalf of myself and all of Argentine Football to all of Cesar’s family at this moment. See you always dear friend!”Argentina’s current president, Javier Milei, also said: “RIP. Deep pain for the departure of the leader of a group that has given one of the greatest joys to the country. “Although I adhere to another school, it would be foolish to deny the contribution of César Luis Menotti. Goodbye Flaco.”There was also a tribute to Menotti during Sunday’s League Cup final in Argentina by Velez Sarsfield and Estudiantes. A minute’s silence was held at half-time, with all invovled paying their respects.A tall, slender figure on the sidelines Menotti would famously smoke throughout matches.The talented manager also enjoyed spells as the coach of Barcelona, Boca Juniors, Independiente, River Plate and Atletico Madrid to name but a few.Menotti took charge of the Mexican national team in the early 1990s, rebuilding the side after their disqualification from the 1990 World CupA striker in his playing days, Menotti played in Argentina with Rosario Central, Racing Club, Boca Juniors. He later joined the New York Generals before playing for Santos and Juventus in Brazil.Argentina have won the prestigious World Cup trophy twice since Menotti managed them to success in 1978.They triumphed again in 1986 in Mexico with the iconic Diego Maradona playing a starring role in the tournament.In 2022, footballing legend Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to lift the most prestigious trophy of all for a third time.READ MORE SUN STORIESLa Albiceleste defeated France in one of the greatest World Cup finals of all time.Argentina has also been runner-up three times: in 1930, 1990 and 2014.Menotti, in charge of a match at the Nou Camp while at Barcelona in 1984 More

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      I played with David Beckham for my club and against him at the World Cup, now I’m making my way in brand new career

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      CHRIS BIRCHALL was David Beckham’s team-mate at LA Galaxy and faced England at the 2006 World Cup.But now he has traded the high life of LA and glitz and glamour of international football for pounding the Staffordshire mud as a REFEREE.Chris Birchall is on red alert for a career as a whistlerCredit: Paul TongeBirchall says England legend David Beckham was humble both as an international opponent and club team-mateCredit: GettyBirchall and Becks won the MLS Cup with LA Galaxy in 2011Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdChris Birchall with a framed David Beckham personalised signed shirtThe  ex-midfielder, 39, lined up against the likes of Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Becks while playing for Trinidad & Tobago in Germany.Stafford-born Birchall, who qualified for the Caribbean islands through his mum, spent three seasons in LA.Hanging on a wall at home in Newcastle-under-Lyme is a personalised signed Beckham shirt and a photo of the pair when they won the MLS Cup in 2011.He said: “David was great with me. Although I played with him towards the end of his career, wow what a player. He could pick you out with a pass from 40 yards.READ MORE TOP STORIES“There was banter between us as English guys. He’d come into training every morning and say to me, ‘Hi, Mr Perfect’ and I was like, ‘If anyone should be called that it’s you!’“He sends video messages when it’s my lad’s birthday and I’ll text him when any big news happens. He’s humble and the type of person you want to be associated with.”Trinidad & Tobago — the Soca Warriors —  elevated Birchall’s career. While still a 22-year-old League One footballer at Port Vale, he found himself up against the Three Lions.England needed two late goals to win 2-0 in the group game before their World Cup quarter-final exit to Portugal. Most read in FootballThe ex-Trinidad & Tobago ace reckons VAR has big weaknessesCredit: Paul TongeCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBirchall said: “My biggest memory was Beckham shaking my hand at the end and telling me, ‘You had one hell of a game’. He was my hero so that was special.“It’s amazing looking back — lining up against Beckham, Scholes, Owen, Rooney, Ferdinand.  That squad should have won a World Cup.” Watch former Bohemians star score from own half with shot to rival David Beckham’s iconic goalBirchall — who also played for  Coventry, Port Vale and Brighton before retiring in 2016 — started the process of becoming an official six months ago.He said: “I’d love to ref in the EFL. The hardest things are positioning  yourself and making split-second decisions.”Birchall would like other former players to lend their experience to help the PGMOL stop the controversies ruining football.He said: “The way certain laws are written tie the hands of refs. There’s no room for common sense.“If an incident ticks all the boxes, you must give a certain decision. Yet if you’ve played you know every incident is different and whether a player meant to do something.He sends video messages when it’s my lad’s birthday and I’ll text him when any big news happens. He’s humble and the type of person you want to be associated with.Chris Birchall on David Beckham“Take handball — a ball’s blasted at you from ten yards. You might be jumping with your arms slightly away from your body and as you’re landing the ball touches your hand. That isn’t a penalty but they’re given.“The diving and simulation is ridiculous. That’s where I’d like to use my experience. Ex-footballers can see the tricks of the trade.“I’ve sympathy for a ref who has a split second to make a decision and then has VAR putting him under pressure to change it after viewing a replay at one thousandth of a second. The game isn’t played in slo-mo.”Birchall saw his ex-club Coventry denied what would have been an incredible win against Manchester United in the FA Cup semi-final.Victor Torp thought he had scored a 120th-minute winner to complete a fightback from 3-0 down. Ref Rob Jones gave the goal but VAR told him Haji Wright was a CENTIMETRE offside!Birchall took on Frank Lampard & Co in the 2006 World CupCredit: GettyHe rose to a momentous occasion against the Three Lions 18 years agoCredit: GettyBirchall said: “This is where VAR kills football. That decision affected a club’s history as Coventry would’ve reached the final having staged one of the greatest ever comebacks.“VAR wasn’t brought in to decide offside by a toenail or to take three minutes to work out.“If it’s level to the naked eye, award the goal — give the advantage to the striker as it used to be. We want to see goals, not find reasons to disallow them.”PGMOL chief Howard Webb wants to welcome ex-players into refereeing and Birchall hopes to see his peers and officials work together.He said: “I don’t want a battle between ex-footballers and refs. It’s about educating refs from a player’s perspective and the other way round.“Paul Merson slates refs on Soccer Saturday — some stuff he’s saying as an ex-player is correct. But it’s often not the ref’s fault, it’s the law that’s written that needs changing.”The high life of LA has gone, now it’s back to earthy EnglandCredit: Paul TongeBirchall gives our man Justin Allen more than just the lowdownCredit: Paul TongeBirchall concedes you cannot make a living refereeing at grassroots level and that perhaps puts ex-players off, especially those who played professionally in the lower divisions and are not wealthy.However, he believes the PGMOL should team up with the PFA, FA and clubs to encourage footballers still playing to take courses.He said: “Unless you’ve made good money from your career, you need a job while you’re developing to reach a level where you might get an income.READ MORE SUN STORIES“They need to be telling footballers towards the end of their careers, ‘You can do this while you’re still playing.’“There needs to be that transition from when they retire to going straight into refereeing or at least have a platform.” More

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      Disgraced Spanish FA chief Luis Rubiales facing 2.5 YEARS in prison and £85,000 payout over World Cup kiss scandal

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      THE axed Spanish FA chief who planted an unwanted kiss on a Women’s World Cup winner’s lips should be jailed for two-and-a-half years, prosecutors say.Disgraced Luis Rubiales should also pay £85,000 compensation to victim Jenni Hermoso if convicted of sexual assault and covering up the infamous “Kissgate” scandal.Luis Rubiales could face two and a half years in prisonCredit: APThe axed Spanish FA chief planted an unwanted kiss on a Women’s World Cup winner’s lipsCredit: GettyThe moment where Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales kisses Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso on the lipsCredit: EnterpriseLuis Rubiales and Piers Morgan on Talk TVCredit: Talk TVThe demands were laid out in a six-page indictment made public yesterday amid continuing fall-out 46-year-old Rubiales’s behaviour at the World Cup Final in Australia last year.Prosecutors say his unseemly conduct – beamed worldwide on TV – warrants a one-year jail term for a sexual assault.But they are also demanding a separate one-year and six month prison sentence for “coercion” linked to his alleged attempts to get Jenni, 33, to speak out in his defence.Madrid-based judge Francisco de Jorge paved the way for Rubiales to face criminal action earlier this year after recommending he be put in the dock.Read more on Luis RubialesHe said his long-running probe had uncovered “solid evidence” pointing to the potential illegality of the kiss.Mr de Jorge has already quizzed the former football boss and his alleged victim separately in closed sessions at Spain’s national court.He said: “The investigation has revealed the existence of solid evidence the kiss was not consensual and was a unilateral and surprise initiative on his part.“Whether there was not any erotic intention or it was a result of the state of euphoria … is something that should be valued in a public trial.”Most read in FootballHe said he had concluded Hermoso had been left “bewildered and surprised” by the “unexpected” kiss and “didn’t have time to react”.Rubiales grabbed her by the head with both hands and locked lips with her at the awards ceremony in front of millions of TV viewers watching live last August.Spain FA chief Rubiales enters women’s dressing room and vows to MARRY Hermoso and take stars to Ibiza after kiss stormRubiales’ home was raided earlier this month as part of a separate corruption probe into a deal to move the Super Cup to Saudi ArabiaCredit: GettyA Europol agent and several agents from the Guardia Civil’s Central Operational Unit leave the Royal Spanish Football Federation last week in MadridCredit: GettyHe also proposed former Spain’s women’s team manager Jorge Vilda, men’s team director Albert Luque and former FA marketing director Ruben Rivera should face trial.Mr de Jorge said in his written ruling he believed there was enough evidence to proceed with a formal accusation against all three for their “concerted action” to nobble Jenni.He said Rubiales and the rio tried to “break Jennifer Hermoso’s will and get her to agree to record a video saying the kiss had been consensual”.The judge concluded in his bombshell ruling: “The pressure the player was submitted to created in Jennifer Hermoso a situation of anxiety and intense stress.”Public prosecutors said yesterday they were seeking prison sentences of one year and six months for Vilda, Luque and Rivera if convicted of coercion.Hermoso, 33, who now plays for Mexican side Tigres, sparked the Audiencia Nacional investigation by filing a complaint against Rubiales last September.She his unsolicited smacker as a sexist act which left her feeling vulnerable – after Rubiales insisted it was consensual and “a peck”.Mr de Jorge banned him from going within 200 metres of Hermoso or making any contact with her.Defiant Rubiales pledged “I will defend my honourability. I will defend my innocence.“I have faith in the future. I have faith in the truth. Thanks to everybody.”Rubiales is at the centre of a separate corruption probe over to a multi-million euro deal to relocate the Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia.He is currently in the Dominican Republic but has promised to return to Spain to defend himself.An apartment belonging to the former Spanish FA chief was searched earlier this month.And today, six suspects have been arrested after state prosecutors raided 11 premises around Spain as part of the Saudi Arabia cup probe, Sky News reported.The offices of the Spanish Football Federation on the outskirts of Madrid were searched, along with Rubiales’ residence in the southern city of Granada.However, Spain’s Guardia Civil stated that the former president was not one of the six arrested and was out of the country when authorities raided his property.READ MORE SUN STORIESRubiales is one of five persons formally under investigation, according to authorities.The office of Spain’s state prosecutors stated that police and Europol detectives were looking for papers and that the operation is expected to result in seven arrests and the identification of five additional persons as under investigation.Luis Rubiales resigned as president of the Spanish Football Federation following criticism over the ‘Kissgate’ scandalCredit: Getty More

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      Female footballer vows to boycott national team after she’s called ‘fat and out of shape’ by country’s football chief

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      PANAMA’S top female player has threatened to quit playing for her country after the nation’s football chief called her “fat and out of shape”.World Cup history-maker Marta Cox vowed to boycott the team if federation president Manuel Arias persists with “hurtful” comments.Marta Cox, seen in Panama’s 5-0 Concacaf defeat to Brazil last month, hit back at criticism from the supremo of her country’s football rulersCredit: Reuters[embedded content]Cox, 26, found fame with Panama Women’s first-ever goal in the showpiece tournament last August – a top-corner free-kick for 35 yards.But the team had a woeful CONCACAF W Gold Cup over the last few weeks, crashing out after losing all three group games.And Cox, who plays for Mexico’s Club Tijuana, angered Arias afterwards when she criticised facilities back home.The supremo of Panama’s football rulers responded by telling local media: “Marta Cox stopped to talk about our league. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”She’s out of shape, she’s fat, she couldn’t move on the pitch.”It’s very easy to talk, but she doesn’t know anything about the Panama league for years, she doesn’t know what’s going on here.”Shocked Cox hit back – as she stuck to her guns about footballing conditions in her native country and warned Arias about his personal comments.The exciting 20-cap ace, who has spent most of her career in Colombia and Mexico, said: “After the World Cup, I expected so much more. Most read in Football”That desire to see steady progress led me to speak out after an unfortunate performance in the Gold Cup.”We are the first to recognise that we were not up to the standard of the tournament, but that same introspection must go beyond just the players. Every Premier League club’s most famous and also most surprising fan”Personally, I feel that there were words used to describe me that certainly hurt me and were unexpected.””If this type of situation becomes a constant, I will not return to defend the colours of the Panama national team.”Fepafult have now posted a fulsome apology – with  Arias promising not to use such language again.The organization stated: “On International Women’s Day… from the Panamanian Football Federation we regret the unfortunate term used by our president Manuel Arias in the local media.”He himself has pledged that it will not be repeated. “In the Federation we are committed to continue working for women’s football, as we have been doing for the last five years through sports and training programmes focused on women.”That said, we know that there is still a lot more work to do.”Cox netted Panama’s first-ever Women’s World Cup goal, a glorious curler after just two minutes against France last AugustCredit: Getty More

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      UK looking to host first World Cup since 1966 as they target women’s 2031 tournament with Lionesses gunning for glory

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      FOOTBALL could be coming home in seven years’ time as UK sports bosses want to host the Fifa Women’s World Cup finals.Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses missed out on World Cup glory last year when they lost in the Sydney final to Spain.UK Sport are prepared to bid for the Women’s World CupCredit: GettyThe Lionesses missed out on becoming world champions last summerCredit: GettyNow UK Sport plan to set-up a feasibility study for a possible bid to host the senior football tournament in either 2031, 2035 or 2039.This could mean a potential head-to-head battle with Saudi Arabia after one of their top officials last October mentioned fronting a bid at the Leaders in Sport conference at Twickenham.If they were successful with the bid, this would represent the first senior World Cup to be staged in the UK since Alf Ramsey’s Boys of 1966 beat West Germany to lift the Jules Rimet Trophy at Wembley.The men’s European Championships in 2028 will be held across England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland.Read More on FootballAnd the women’s Euros took place in the summer of 2021 – when the Lionesses were victorious.UK Sport have expressed their interest for the event as part of their Making Live Sport Matter initiative, which will target 70 events in 32 sports and 18 World Championships.The governing body believe it will have a huge economic impact across 20 locations for over 15 million fans, with a £5billion potential income.Other events they are keen to host include the men’s Rugby World Cup, the Athletics World Championships in 2029, the Ryder Cup, the Solheim Cup, the Cycling World Championships and the Grand Depart of the Tour de France.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSimon Morton, Deputy CEO and Director of Events at UK Sport, said: “In the UK, millions of us choose to spend our free time watching and enjoying live sport with those that matter most to us, our friends, families and communities.“Live sport is a fundamental part of this country’s social fabric. No other country buys more tickets per head to major sporting events than we do in the UK.Mary Earps, Lauren Hemp and Millie Bright given gongs as sport & music stars celebrated in New Year’s Honours list“In the years ahead, we want to host a programme of live sport that resonates with the British public and makes a difference to millions of people’s lives.“That programme has to be more accessible to people and communities across the country ensuring sport reaches as many fans as possible.”Sports Minister Stuart Andrew said: “With the Champions League final at Wembley in June and the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 we’re building on our world leading reputation for hosting major sporting events.“We are working closely with UK Sport and partners to fulfil our shared ambition to deliver up to 70 major events across 30 different sports to the UK in the years ahead.”UK Sport claim that the Women’s World Cup, which began professionally in 1991, is the biggest sporting event yet to be held in the British Isles.The host nation for the 2027 tournament will be decided soon but bids have gone in from Brazil and joints ones by Belgium/Germany/Holland and Mexico/United States.UK Sport refuse to say if this would be a joint bid across the four Home Nations or solely in English stadiums but talks with the associations will start after May.There are no plans for bidding for a men’s World Cup any time before 2038 at the earliest.There are also no immediate plans to save the Commonwealth Games – which worryingly has no host for the 2026 and 2030 editions – because it is too financially bloated and “the challenge is value for money”, according to officials.The Lionesses will take the first steps to retaining their European Championship title next month when they kick off their qualifiers.However, they have been drawn in the Group of Death.England will face Sweden, France and the Republic of Ireland as they look to book a spot on the plane to Switzerland. More

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      England drawn in group of death for Euro 2025 qualifying as Lionesses seek to retain title

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      ENGLAND have been drawn in the group of death ahead of this summer’s Euro 2025 qualifiers.The Lionesses will face France, Sweden and the Republic of Ireland as they look to take the first steps towards retaining their European Championship title.The Lionesses are looking to retain their European Championship titleCredit: GettyEngland won the tournament in 2022Credit: GettySarina Wiegman’s side took the crown on home soil in 2022 after defeating Germany in the final at Wembley.They automatically qualified for the tournament after being named hosts in 2018.However, they face a difficult route to next year’s event in Switzerland.Three of the four teams in Group A3 – England, Sweden and France – made it to the Euro 2022 semi-finals.Read More on FootballSweden are currently fifth in the official FIFA rankings, one spot behind England.The Lionesses defeated Peter Gerhardsson’s side 4-0 back in 2022 to reach the Euros final at Wembley.However, Sweden went on an impressive run at last year’s World Cup to finish third.Hervé Renard’s France will also pose a threat to England’s Euro 2025 hopes.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLes Bleus are second in the FIFA rankings, just above the Lionesses.As for Ireland, the Girls in Green will be led by Arsenal’s Katie McCabe.Heartwarming moment Lionesses star fulfills promise to disabled fan with sweet gesture in England thrashingMcCabe helped spearhead Ireland to their first major tournament last summer.Although they managed just one point from Group B, the tournament debutants impressed in Australia against the hosts and Olympic champions Canada.Despite being drawn in the group of death, England have reason to be confident ahead of this summer’s Euro qualifiers.Captain Leah Williamson is on the verge of returning to the squad following her ACL injury.The 26-year-old came close to making her comeback last month but was forced to pull out of the squad due to a hamstring issue.Wiegman also has several new players to pick from including young stars Khiara Keating and Grace Clinton. More