Women’s World Cup 2023 LIVE: England build-up to Haiti opener after Spain win

England are building up to their opening game of the Women’s World Cup as the Lionesses face Haiti in Brisbane on Saturday.

Captain Millie Bright has been passed fit for the Group D clash as Sarina Wiegman vowed the Lionesses would do “everything” they can to bring home a first World Cup trophy.

Spain began their World Cup campaign with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Costa Rica, as Aitana Bonmati scored a stunning goal to highlight a dominant performance.

Earlier, Christine Sinclair missed a penalty and the chance to make World Cup history as Olympic champions Canada were held to a 0-0 draw by Nigeria, while Switzerland defeated debutants Philippines 2-0 to go top of Group A.

Elsewhere on Saturday, the United States will get their tournament defence underway against dubutants Vietnam, Japan begin their campaign against Zambia, and China face Denmark in the other gamein England’s Group D.

Follow the latest World Cup scores, updates and news in today’s live blog

Women’s World Cup 2023 LIVE: Latest scores and updates

• Women’s World Cup 2023 under way in New Zealand and Australia

• Spain cruise to comfortable 3-0 win against Costa Rica in Group C

• Canada held to 0-0 draw by Nigeria as Christine Sinclair sees penalty saved

• Switzerland defeat World Cup debutants Philippines 2-0 in Group A

• England captain Millie Bright fit to start World Cup opener against Haiti

• Women’s World Cup tournament schedule and TV channel guide

Philippines 0 - 2 Switzerland

England Women’s World Cup 2023 squad: Who will play for the Lionesses in Australia and New Zealand?

19:30 , Mike Jones

England enter the 2023 Women’s World Cup as European champions with the Lionesses eager to contend for glory in Australia and New Zealand.

Sarina Wiegman has seen her squad hit by a number of injuries, including captain Leah Williamson, Chelsea star Fran Kirby and Euros Golden Boot-winner Beth Mead all unable to make the tournament.

But the Lionesses remain one of the strongest sides of the tournament, as third favourites (9/2) behind Spain (4/1) and the champions and favourites USA (9/4).

Here is the England squad that will look to first negotiate a group including Haiti, Denmark and China before eyeing another historic run in the knock-out stages of a tournament.

England Women’s squad for World Cup 2023

England women World Cup fixtures and route to the final

19:15 , Mike Jones

England enter the World Cup as one of the favourites as the Lionesses look to build on their victory at the European Championships last summer by winning the game’s biggest prize.

England have reached the semi-finals on their last two World Cup appearances in 2015 and 2019 and will be dreaming of going one step further in Australia and New Zealand.

The Lionesses gained valuable experience of winning a major title after their historic victory on home soil at the Euros under Sarina Wiegman.

The United States are looking to win their third consecutive World Cup but England arrive at this summer’s tournament as the main contenders to their crown.

Here’s everything you need to know.

England women World Cup fixtures and route to the final

Today at the World Cup

19:02 , Mike Jones

Swiss top Group A

Switzerland take the advantage into the next round of fixtures after they beat the Philippines 2-0 to top Group A.

It was a tough start for the Filipinas on their World Cup debut after Katrina Guillou had her effort ruled out for offside in the 16th minute.

Ramona Bachmann then put the Swiss ahead with a penalty before the break and Seraina Piubel secured victory with her strike in the 64th minute.

Switzerland are level with co-hosts New Zealand on three points and will face Norway next on Tuesday.

Today at the World Cup

18:52 , Mike Jones

Missed chances for Canada

It was not the start to the tournament that Canada were hoping for after being held to a 0-0 draw by Nigeria in Group B.

In a tense clash, veteran Sinclair had the opportunity to put Canada ahead from the penalty spot, but she was denied by brilliant diving save from Nigeria’s goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.

The Super Eagles had Deborah Abiodun sent-off in the final stages of the game. Nnadozie’s stellar performance earned praise from Nigeria coach Randy Waldrum.

He said: “Chiamaka has done this before and I will say this and I will embarrass her in front of you all, but I think she’s one of the best young goalkeepers in the world right now.”

Today at the World Cup

18:42 , Mike Jones

Dominant Spain ease to victory

Spain started their campaign with a simple yet controlled 3-0 victory over Costa Rica. Valeria del Campo’s own goal was followed by strikes from Aitana Bonmati and Esther Gonzalez in the next six minutes.

Jenni Hermoso also had a penalty saved by Daniela Solera before half-time, meaning that there has been a spot-kick awarded in all five games in the tournament so far.

The match also marked the return of double Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, who played the final 13 minutes of the game following her return from an ACL injury.

England’s World Cup hinges on a defining question

18:32 , Mike Jones

Since arriving in Australia, Sarina Wiegman has stepped up work on a new system, that may not even be unveiled until the knock-out stages. It is an inherent acknowledgement that England are no longer in the strong position they were, but simultaneously something that may yet prove the winning of this World Cup.

This has been reflected in the mood of the camp in Australia, beyond the distraction over bonuses. There is certainly no lack of faith, especially in Wiegman’s ability to come up with something special. This is another benefit of a feat like the Euro 2022 victory. It banishes doubts, and fosters that immensely powerful feeling that everything will go well because the manager knows exactly what they are doing. It is why big games, as in that juncture quarter-final win over Spain, can almost seem like they will go exactly as Wiegman predicts.

There’s also the fact that, right now, the manager has one of the most talented teams in the world. For so long, this has seemed like the moment England were long building up to.

The question now is whether that moment just comes at the wrong time.

England’s World Cup hinges on a defining question

Megan Rapinoe: The legendary US attacker and LGBT+ rights activist in profile

18:22 , Mike Jones

Megan Rapinoe, 38, burst onto the global stage at the 2011 World Cup in Germany when she scored a screamer against Colombia and celebrated by grabbing an on-field microphone placed near the corner flag and crooning Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the USA”. A star was born.

Since then, the iconic neon-haired winger has won gold at the London 2012 Olympics, bronze at the Tokyo 2020 games and both the 2015 and 2019 FIFA World Cups as an integral part of the US Women’s National Team (USWNT).

She was named player of the tournament at her last World Cup in France four years ago after scoring six – including a spotkick in the final against the Netherlands – and picked up both the Golden Boot and that year’s Ballon d’Or Feminin.

Megan Rapinoe: The legendary US attacker and LGBT+ rights activist in profile

Who is Alex Morgan? The prolific USWNT striker in profile

18:13 , Mike Jones

US Women’s National Team (USWNT) striker Alex Morgan, 34, is one of the biggest stars in women’s football, already an Olympic gold medallist and a two-time World Cup winner.

The American is heading into her fourth FIFA Women’s World Cup and ranks in the top 10 in USWNT history in goals, assists and multi-goal games.

Morgan first caught the eye a decade ago at the 2011 World Cup in Germany when she was the youngest player in the American squad but, undaunted by the international spotlight, scored in both the semi-final and final as the US finished runners-up to Japan.

Who is USWNT striker Alex Morgan?

England goalkeeper Mary Earps hits out at Nike for refusing to sell her shirt

18:06 , Mike Jones

England goalkeeper Mary Earps says Nike’s decision to not sell her kit during the Women’s World Cup is “hurtful” and “hugely disappointing”.

England’s home and away kits are available for fans to buy, but the Lionesses goalkeeper kits have not been put up for sale by the team’s kit supplier.

Earps was England’s goalkeeper when they won the Euros last summer and the Manchester United star was named Fifa’s Best Women’s Goalkeeper for 2022.

England goalkeeper Mary Earps hits out at Nike for refusing to sell her shirt

Chloe Kelly: England’s most iconic goalscorer in profile

17:59 , Mike Jones

Chloe Kelly has already secured her place in English football history after coming off the bench in last summer’s Euro 2022 Final to stab home the winner in extra-time as Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses beat Germany 2-1, tearing off her shirt and whirling it maniacally in the air in one of the most instantly-iconic celebrations Wembley has ever seen.

Kelly had almost missed the tournament with a knee injury but returned to triumph, her moment of euphoria as joyous and empowering a moment as any sport anywhere has ever produced.

Since then, she was England’s top scorer in February’s Arnold Clark Cup and scored the winning penalty against Brazil to win the Finalissima, proving once again that she is a big game player of the very highest calibre.

Chloe Kelly: England’s most iconic goalscorer in profile

Rachel Daly: England’s versatile goalscorer in profile

17:51 , Mike Jones

Aston Villa’s Rachel Daly is one of the most versatile members of Sarina Wiegman’s England squad – and one of its great characters – and comes into the World Cup in the form of her life, having scored 30 goals in 30 games for her club this season in all competitions to take home the Women’s Super League’s Golden Boot.

The Harrogate native, 31, started with Killinghall Nomads where she was scouted by Leeds United before making her first league appearances for Lincoln City Ladies, scoring four times across 24 games in 2011 and 2012.

But she first really made a name for herself in New York playing for St John’s University Red Storm in Queens, setting the college’s record goals tally of 50 despite playing in just two years out of the three she was enrolled at the institution between 2013 and 2015.

Rachel Daly: England’s versatile goalscorer in profile

Alessia Russo: England’s attacking talent in profile

17:44 , Mike Jones

With the retirement of England’s record goalscorer Ellen White in the wake of last summer’s Euros triumph, much of the responsibility for providing the side’s attacking threat could now fall upon the shoulders of Alessia Russo.

Russo, 24, who has just moved from Manchester United to Arsenal on a free transfer, grew in influence as that tournament progressed, regularly emerging from the bench to replace White and scoring twice in a 5-0 thrashing of Northern Ireland, as well as netting arguably the goal of the tournament in the semi-final: an utterly outrageous backheel to embarrass Sweden.

Born and raised in Maidstone, Kent, Russo is of Sicillian heritage and took to football from an early age, both her father Mario and older brother Giorgio having played at non-league level.

Alessia Russo: England’s attacking talent in profile

Players to watch

17:36 , Mike Jones

Group H

Germany: Alexandra Popp became the first player in Euros history to score in five consecutive games before her story took an unexpected twist, with injury ruling the 32-year-old out of the final against England. The Wolfsburg striker, who is driven by goals, is among the contenders for the golden boot.

Morocco: Ghizlane Chebba was named player of the tournament as Morocco reached the final of the women’s Africa Cup of Nations for the first time, where they lost to South Africa. The 32-year-old scored three goals during the tournament and the captain of the Morocco team has become a star in her country.

Colombia: The rise of Linda Caicedo has been extraordinary. The 18-year-old is set to star in the World Cup having played in both of the U-17 and U-20 World Cups in 2022, as well as the Copa America. There, Caicedo won the tournament’s Golden Ball and helped Colombia reach the final, before a big move to Europe beckoned. The midfielder chose Real Madrid, who have secured one of the biggest talents in the game.

South Korea: Ji So-Yun was hailed as an “icon”, a “magician” and the “best international player in the WSL ever” by Chelsea manager Emma Hayes after she made the decision to bring eight years with the Blues to an end in 2022. Ji’s impact on Chelsea’s success under Hayes was clear, but the creative midfielder has created an even finer legacy in her own country. Ji is South Korea’s greatest ever player and record scorer, and this is set to be her last World Cup.

Players to watch

17:27 , Mike Jones

Group G

Sweden: Converted into a left back by Barcelona, Fridolina Rolfo remains one of the most dangerous players in the world and is given full licence to attack by her national team. With a brilliant left foot and engine, Rolfo comes into the World Cup on a high after scoring the winning goal in last season’s Champions League final.

South Africa: With key forward Thembi Kgatlana injured, Hildah Magaia scored a clinical brace as South Africa beat Morocco to win the women’s Africa Cup of Nations, their first major title. Magaia was also named player of the tournament and will be key to their hopes in Group G.

Italy: Barbara Bonansea. The Juventus forward is a quality outlet on the wings and remains from the Italy team that reached the quarter-finals in France four years ago. The 32-year-old Bonansea has overseen a period of change this then, with the Italy domestic league turning professional in 2022 and a new generation coming through, but she remains just as important to her side.

Argentina: Estefania Banini is a star for Atletico Madrid in Spain and made the FifPro World XI in 2021. The tricky wide midfielder has returned from injury a previous falling out with the national team and is set to be fit for what is expected to be her last World Cup at the age of 33.

Players to watch

17:18 , Mike Jones

Group F

France: With Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Delphine Cascarino out of the World Cup due to injury, more emphasis and responsibility will be placed on the shoulders of Kadidiatou Diani. The PSG forward, who can play across the front line, will need to support the returning Eugenie Le Sommer, France’s record goalscorer.

Brazil: While Marta is very much the leader and inspiration in the Brazil team, keep an eye on the Barcelona forward Geyse, who troubled England in April with her quick turning and dribbling. Geyse has been linked with a move to the WSL and Manchester United in recent weeks.

Jamaica: Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw scored 20 goals in 22 appearances in the Women’s Super League last season, second only to England’s Rachel Daly, and the Manchester City striker is a shining light in the Jamaica team. Shaw thrives on the responsibility. She is Jamaica’s record scorer, men’s or women’s, and her goals secured qualification to a second consecutive World Cup.

Panama: Marta Cox is the captain of the side and stands as the inspirational force behind Panama’s qualification for the World Cup. The 25-year-old midfielder dedicated Panama’s victory against Paraguay in the inter-continental qualifiers to her late mother, who had passed away nine months earlier.

Players to watch

17:09 , Mike Jones

Group E

USA: Alex Morgan, the face of the US team and joint top scorer in France four years ago, is back for her fourth World Cup, arguably better than ever. Since helping the US to back-to-back titles, Morgan has given birth to her first child and at 33 is still scoring regularly in the NWSL.

Netherlands: With Vivianne Miedema ruled out with an ACL injury, the Netherlands will turn to a relatively unknown prospect for goals. Fenna Kalma only made her international debut in September but comes into the World Cup having scored 30 goals in just 20 appearances for FC Twente last season.

Portugal: Jessica Silva is a baller who belongs on the World Cup stage. The Benfica forward has a tall and languid style but is devastating on the ball and is one of the most skillful attackers in the game.

Vietnam: As the only player in the Vietnam squad to play their football outside of the country and in Europe, striker Huynh Nhu will be familiar with some of her Group E rivals. The 32-year-old, who is Vietnam’s record goalscorer, plays for Portuguese side Lank Vilaverdense.

Players to watch

17:00 , Mike Jones

Group D

England: Keira Walsh was the player of the match in the Euros final and remains England’s most important player with her ability to set the team’s pace and tempo in midfield. Walsh moved to Barcelona last summer for what was said to be a world-record fee and after winning the Champions League on her first season at the club, the 26-year-old has returned to the Lionesses to set higher standards.

Denmark: Pernille Harder is one of the top players in the world and will be a familiar face to England fans after three successful seasons spent in the Women’s Super League with Chelsea, who she joined for a world-record fee in 2020. The skillful and tireless attacker leads the line for Denmark, who cannot afford to leave her isolated. One of the game’s most decorated players, Harder will be making her World Cup debut.

China: Captain Wang Shanshan is a wonder: a veteran striker with a tendency to score crucial goals, the 33-year-old can also help out defensively by playing at centre-back for the team.

Haiti: There is considerable excitement around the 19-year-old Melchie Dumornay, who has signed a pre-contract with European powerhouse Lyon ahead of the new season. The midfielder scored twice as Haiti beat Chile in the inter-continental play-offs to qualify for the World Cup and is regarded as one of the best young players in the world.

Players to watch

16:51 , Mike Jones

Group C

Spain: Aitana Bonmati. When an ACL injury robbed two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas of the chance to play at the Euros last summer and then took away almost all of the following season, it handed her international and club team-mate Bonmati the opportunity to play further forward for Barcelona. How she took it. Arguably the best player in the world over the past year.

Japan: Yui Hasegawa. Signed by Manchester City last summer to replace England’s Keira Walsh, the 26-year-old impressed with her class and composure on the ball and tenacity in midfield, finishing the season as one of the top performers in the Women’s Super League. Japan will rely on Hasegawa to set their tempo from the middle of the pitch.

Zambia: Barbra Banda made history at the 2021 Olympics when she became the first player to score back-to-back hat-tricks at the Games. The 23-year-old is captain of the Zambia side and is key to their chances of making it out of the group, as her stunning two-goal display against Germany before the tournament showed.

Costa Rica: Raquel Rodriguez is Costa Rica’s record scorer with 55 goals, including the country’s first at a World Cup on their only previous appearance in 2015. The Portland Thorns midfielder, who has won over 100 caps for Costa Rica, has urged her team-mates to battle with passion and commitment as they look to claim a first-ever World Cup win.

Players to watch

16:42 , Mike Jones

Group B

Australia: There’s no question about this. Sam Kerr is the face of the World Cup and the star of the Australia team. As the most lethal striker in the world, who always seems to deliver on the big occasion, the Chelsea forward could be the difference for the Matildas as they look to advance past the quarter-finals for the first time. The 29-year-old makes the hosts a genuine contender.

Canada: Christine Sinclair has been setting records for most of her life. At 40, and now into the 22nd year of her international career, the striker is set to become the first player to play at six World Cups - although Brazil’s Marta could later equal that record this tournament. In Australia, Sinclair and Marta also have the chance to become the first player to score at six different World Cups.

Nigeria: Asisat Oshoala doesn’t just have a claim to be the greatest African player in the world, but the best of all time. The Nigeria striker and Barcelona star has won the African player of the year award four times and has hit at least 20 goals in each of her last two seasons in Spain. The Super Falcons may have been drawn in the group of death, but Oshoala will be a threat to both Australia and Canada.

Ireland: Katie McCabe. The Arsenal fan favourite famously wears her heart on her sleeve and embodies what Ireland will require in Australia: defensive nous, aggression, a lot of effort, and quality when it counts. McCabe has it all and alongside Denise O’Sullivan will be key.

Players to watch

16:33 , Mike Jones

Group A

New Zealand: If New Zealand are going to need something special to break their cycle of World Cup disappointment on home soil, don’t be surprised if they are inspired by the fearlessness of youth. The Football Ferns finished an impressive third at the Under-17 World Cup five years ago and striker Gabi Rennie, the team’s No 9, is a breakthrough prospect.

Norway: It’s a testament to the skill, speed and elusiveness of Barcelona’s Caroline Graham Hansen that Guro Reiten isn’t even the most dangerous winger on the Norway team. Arguably the best dribbler in the game, the 28-year-old took a break from the international side following the Euros last summer but is now back to best - as Chelsea once again found out in this season’s Champions League.

Switzerland: The smooth and composed Lia Walti draws the eye in the centre of midfield and the captain is the pillar of the side. “Lia is such a magnetic player. Everyone passes to her,” said the Switzerland head coach Inka Grings. “She always demands the ball and, when she has it, it sticks to her feet.”

Philippines: Sarina Bolden took the most important kick in the history of the Philippines with the winning penalty against Chinese Taipei that secured their qualification for the World Cup. The Philippines will need more moments of history to make an impact in New Zealand.

Every Women’s World Cup kit ranked and rated

16:24 , Mike Jones

The battle for the Women’s World Cup is underway, but the contest for the best kit at the tournament has never been stronger.

The biggest ever Women’s World Cup means there are more new shirts to dive into than ever before, while Nike and Adidas have taken their creative experimentation process to another level in Australia and New Zealand.

Like in 2019, the Women’s World Cup features a host of unique designs - with Adidas unveiling a selection of nature-themed kits and Nike taking inspiration from various artistic movements. The results are wild.

Here are the Women’s World Cup 2023 kits, ranked and rated from worst to best:

Every Women’s World Cup kit ranked and rated

England make decision on armbands for Women’s World Cup matches

16:15 , Mike Jones

England captain Millie Bright will wear armbands advocating for inclusion, Indigenous People and gender equality in the Lionesses’ respective first three World Cup matches, the FA has confirmed.

Players have the choice of wearing one or more of eight FIFA-sanctioned armbands at this tournament, but not the rainbow OneLove design that sparked the threat of sanctions being issued to countries – including England and Wales – during the 2022 men’s World Cup in Qatar.

Should the Lionesses progress past the group stage, which begins with Saturday’s opener against Haiti, the player-led decision is for their skipper to switch out her armband to a new cause for each match.

England make decision on armbands for Women’s World Cup matches

‘Empowered’ England won’t be distracted by bonus row, Lucy Bronze insists

16:06 , Mike Jones

England defender Lucy Bronze said the Lionesses are feeling “empowered” ahead of their World Cup opener after releasing a statement addressing the players’ ongoing row with the Football Association (FA) over bonus payments and other commercial concerns.

In a message from the team posted on social media by captain Millie Bright, the Lionesses said they were “disappointed that a resolution has still not been achieved” but would “pause discussions, with full intentions of revisiting them following the tournament”, which begins for England on Saturday against Haiti in Brisbane.

Bronze, speaking at England’s team hotel on Wednesday, was adamant that the decision to go public about the situation was motivated not just by personal financial benefits but wider principles, and maintained she is “one hundred per cent confident that we will not be distracted by this”.

‘Empowered’ England won’t be distracted by bonus row, Lucy Bronze insists

Courtney Brosnan says playing for Republic gives her ‘connection’ to family

15:57 , Mike Jones

Goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan is certain her grandparents would be beaming with pride had they had lived long enough to see her play in the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup debut.

The Girls in Green kick off their campaign against tournament co-hosts Australia at 1100 BST in front of a sold-out crowd at Stadium Australia after demand forced organisers to relocate the meeting to the competition’s largest venue.

The Everton keeper is eligible for the Republic through her paternal grandparents Margaret and Brendan, who were born in Roscommon and Kerry but later emigrated to the United States, where Brosnan was born and raised.

Courtney Brosnan says playing for Republic gives her ‘connection’ to family

Millie Bright: England women’s football captain in profile

15:48 , Mike Jones

With the Lionesses’ Euro 2022-winning captain Leah Williamson forced to miss out on the World Cup through injury, coach Sarina Wiegman has entrusted the responsibility for leading the team to experienced Chelsea centre back Millie Bright.

Bright has been passed fit for England’s match against Haiti after recovering from knee surgery and the defender will lead the Lionesses in their Group D opener.

Now 29, Bright grew up in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, overcoming infant pneumonia and asthma to enjoy a career as a top level athlete, although her first love was equestrianism, not football.

Millie Bright: England women’s football captain in profile

Women’s World Cup pundits - who’s presenting the 2023 tournament on the BBC and ITV?

15:40 , Mike Jones

The Women’s World Cup is set to be one of the biggest sporting events this summer, with an unmissable lineup that is due to kick off in Australia and New Zealand on Thursday 20th July.

Last year, England brought home the trophy after its win against Germany in a sold-out Wembley arena.

To give viewers the best experience in this year’s fixtures, household names such as Gabby Logan will be at the forefront of the BBC coverage, while Laura Woods will take on the lead for ITV’s coverage.

Women’s World Cup pundits - who’s presenting the 2023 tournament on the BBC and ITV?

Who will be presenting the coverage on TV?

15:32 , Mike Jones

The ITV presenters

Michelle Owen, known as one of the UK’s leading female sports presenters currently presents Sky Sports EFL coverage and has recently been a part of the ITV football team - covering the men’s FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Presenter Michelle Owen during the Sky Bet League One play-off, semi-final, first leg match at the Weston Homes Stadium, Peterborough.

Owen’s passion for football started at an early age and she soon went on to play in the Women’s Premier League.

Confident in her skills, Owen went to Euro 2020 with ITV, keeping across the Wales coverage throughout the tournament as well as other teams in the final.

Who will be presenting the coverage on TV?

15:26 , Mike Jones

The ITV presenters

Seema Jaswal,38, is a TV presenter from London and currently works with a number of UK and international broadcasters.

ITV Sport presenter Seema Jaswal during the Emirates FA Cup second round match at Peninsula Stadium, Salford.

Jaswal currently presents the Champions League on BT Sport, ITV’s International football, Premier League’s global Match-Day live coverage and BBC’s Snooker Triple Crown events.

The star goes beyond the sports scene and has been featured on Ted Lassion Season 2, ITV’s Good Morning Britain, Lorraine, Celebrity Catch Phrase and The Chase.

Who will be presenting the coverage on TV?

15:20 , Mike Jones

The ITV presenters

Laura Woods, 36, has grown in her broadcasting and presenting roles across a range of sports with ITV, Sky Sports and TalkSport.

Amazon Prime’s Laura Woods prior to the Premier League match at Villa Park, Birmingham on Monday 26 December 2022.

Woods will now be the lead presenter for the Champions League as TNT Sport enters the British and Irish market replacing BT Sport. The presenter will be leading the all-female presenter team for the football news venture.

Who will be presenting the coverage on TV?

15:14 , Mike Jones

The BBC presenters

Alex Scott, 38, is a Sports commentator, pundit and former professional footballer who played as right-back for Arsenal in the FA WSL. She won nine league titles and seven FA Cups before crossing the Atlantic In 2009.

BBC Sport presenter Alex Scott during the Barclays Women’s Super League match at Kingsmeadow, London on Wednesday 3 May, 2023.

Also known as a highly-experienced England International, the star featured for Team GB at the 2012 Olympics and made 140 appearances for the England national team.

Growing in her success, in 2019 Scott became a pundit for BBC Sport and Sky Sports. She also featured during the 2018 FIFA World Cup and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Who will be presenting the coverage on TV?

15:08 , Mike Jones

The BBC presenters

Reshmin Chowdhury, 45, is a British Journalist who currently presents live Premier League football on TalkSport as well as live coverage of the Women’s Super League and other major women’s football tournaments for BBC Sport.

BT Sport presenter Reshmin Chowdhury pitch side prior to the UEFA Euro 2021 Under-21 Qualifying Group 3 match at Molineux, Wolverhampton.

Chowdhury has worked across football coverage with BT Sport for nine years, including coverage on the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, the FA Cup and the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Rachel Daly or Alessia Russo for England? I know who I would start at the World Cup

15:06 , Mike Jones

Kelly Smith explains who she thinks will lead the line for England in their opening match agains Haiti writing:

‘Tournament football is about solving problems, quickly and effectively. While Sarina Wiegman, assistant Arjan Veurink, and the rest of the coaching team will be devising plans to see off England’s World Cup opponents, a lot comes down to how teams react on the pitch to what is in front of them.

‘That is especially true when facing teams who want to sit deep against a team of England’s undoubted strength, where unlocking packed back lines with 10 or 11 behind the ball will be crucial.

‘Against cautious opponents – which is what England will face in the group stage when they play Haiti, Denmark and China – taking chances is the key. Scoring not only puts you up, but it also alters the stage of the game, it will invite the opposition forwards to try to get one back, and there is the psychological impact. There is nothing more disheartening than defending superbly for 20 or 30 minutes and then conceding from the first real opportunity...’

Kelly Smith: Rachel Daly or Alessia Russo for England? I know who I would start

Who will be presenting the coverage on TV?

15:02 , Mike Jones

The BBC presenters

Gabby Logan, 50, will be leading the BBC’s coverage of the event. The Welsh television presenter began her broadcasting career in 1992 and went to join Sky News in 1996. Her success continued after she established herself as one of their key presenters. In 1998 she then went to join ITV, where she presented various fixtures including The World Cup and Champions League.

BBC Sport presenter Gabby Logan ahead of the TikTok Women’s Six Nations match at the cinch Stadium.

Logan hosted BBC’s Sport Relief in 2004 and in 2007, the presenter joined the company. During her time at the BBC, she presented the Final Score, Inside Sport and the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games.

When are England’s group games?

14:53 , Mike Jones

England play their first match of the World Cup against Haiti in Group D on 22 July. The game starts at 10:30am BST and will be shown on ITV.

On 28 July, England play Denmark with kick-off at 9:30am BST and the game broadcast on the BBC.

England’s final group-stage fixture is against China on Tuesday 1 August and will be shown on ITV with the match starting at 12pm BST.

Should England make it through to the round of 16, their fixture will be shown live on the BBC.

England goalkeeper Mary Earps hits out at Nike over kit decision: ‘Very hurtful’

14:44 , Mike Jones

England goalkeeper Mary Earps says Nike’s decision to not sell her kit during the Women’s World Cup is “hurtful” and “hugely disappointing”.

England’s home and away kits are available for fans to buy, but the Lionesses goalkeeper kits have not been put up for sale by the team’s kit supplier.

Earps was England’s goalkeeper when they won the Euros last summer and the Manchester United star was named Fifa’s Best Women’s Goalkeeper for 2022.

Earps said England captain Millie Bright had told her she wanted to buy her kit for her niece, only to find it wasn’t available for purchase.

England goalkeeper Mary Earps hits out at Nike over kit decision: ‘Very hurtful’

Saturday’s fixtures

14:35 , Mike Jones

Saturday sees both the reigning World and European champions kick off their campaigns as the USA take on Vietnam and England play Haiti.

The USA’s opening game kicks off in Auckland at two o’clock in the morning while England face Haiti at half past 10.

Group E: USA vs Vietnam (2am, Eden Park, Auckland)

Group C: Zambia vs Japan (8am, Waikato Stadium, Hamilton)

Group D: England vs Haiti (10.30am, Brisbane Stadium, Brisbane)

Group D: Denmark vs China (1pm, Perth Rectangular Stadium, Perth)

*All times BST

Today at the World Cup

14:26 , Mike Jones

Swiss top Group A

Switzerland take the advantage into the next round of fixtures after they beat the Philippines 2-0 to top Group A.

It was a tough start for the Filipinas on their World Cup debut after Katrina Guillou had her effort ruled out for offside in the 16th minute.

Ramona Bachmann then put the Swiss ahead with a penalty before the break and Seraina Piubel secured victory with her strike in the 64th minute.

Switzerland are level with co-hosts New Zealand on three points and will face Norway next on Tuesday.

Today at the World Cup

14:17 , Mike Jones

Missed chances for Canada

It was not the start to the tournament that Canada were hoping for after being held to a 0-0 draw by Nigeria in Group B.

In a tense clash, veteran Sinclair had the opportunity to put Canada ahead from the penalty spot, but she was denied by brilliant diving save from Nigeria’s goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.

The Super Eagles had Deborah Abiodun sent-off in the final stages of the game. Nnadozie’s stellar performance earned praise from Nigeria coach Randy Waldrum.

He said: “Chiamaka has done this before and I will say this and I will embarrass her in front of you all, but I think she’s one of the best young goalkeepers in the world right now.”

Today at the World Cup

14:09 , Mike Jones

Dominant Spain ease to victory

Spain started their campaign with a simple yet controlled 3-0 victory over Costa Rica. Valeria del Campo’s own goal was followed by strikes from Aitana Bonmati and Esther Gonzalez in the next six minutes.

Jenni Hermoso also had a penalty saved by Daniela Solera before half-time, meaning that there has been a spot-kick awarded in all five games in the tournament so far.

The match also marked the return of double Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, who played the final 13 minutes of the game following her return from an ACL injury.

New Zealand’s historic moment gives Women’s World Cup the spark it needed

14:00 , Mike Jones

“We’ve been fighting for this for so long,” Ali Riley said, smiling through the tears. The New Zealand captain had waited more than most, winless at her four previous World Cups, part of a run that stretched back even further than that. Without a victory in 15 attempts at the tournament, New Zealand entered their own World Cup with unwanted history hanging over them. Facing Norway in their opening match, that winless run was expected to continue.

How Hannah Wilkinson’s goal changed that. In a stunning upset, New Zealand altered the narrative, providing the World Cup with its first shock that will ripple not just in Group A but throughout the tournament. With a victory in their most difficult game of the group stages, New Zealand can now set their sights higher and target a place in the knockouts. They will have momentum on their side when they face Switzerland and the Philippines.

Such moments can change expectations, as well as perceptions.

New Zealand’s historic moment gives Women’s World Cup the spark it needed

Which countries are playing in the World Cup?

13:50 , Mike Jones

This Women’s World Cup is the first one to feature 32 teams from across the World. Australia and New Zealand are co-hosts for the competition with the USA being the reigning World Champions.

Here are all the teams in this edition of the World Cup and which group they’ve been drawn in:

Group A: New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Switzerland

Group B: Australia, Republic of Ireland, Nigeria, Canada

Group C: Spain, Costa Rica, Zambia, Japan

Group D: England, Haiti, Denmark, China

Group E: United States, Vietnam, Netherlands, Portugal

Group F: France, Jamaica, Brazil, Panama

Group G: Sweden, South Africa, Italy, Argentina

Group H: Germany, Morocco, Colombia, South Korea

Sarina Wiegman insists England will give ‘everything’ to lift Women’s World Cup

13:41 , Mike Jones

England boss Sarina Wiegman vowed the Lionesses would do “everything” they can to bring home a first World Cup when they begin their campaign against Haiti in Brisbane on Saturday.

Wiegman also provided a welcome update on captain Millie Bright, who is fit to start tomorrow’s contest after concerns she was still recovering from the knee injury she sustained in March which required surgery.

The World Cup trophy is one that has so far eluded both England and Wiegman, who led the Netherlands to the final four years ago in France but fell to defeat at the hands of the United States.

Sarina Wiegman insists England will give ‘everything’ to lift Women’s World Cup

Jordan Nobbs thrilled to be part of England World Cup squad after past setbacks

13:32 , Mike Jones

Jordan Nobbs admits it is an “unbelievable feeling” to be part of England’s World Cup squad this summer after the setbacks she has suffered in the past.

Nobbs, 30, went to the 2015 tournament in Canada but was restricted to just one appearance by a hamstring issue, then missed out on selection for the 2019 edition in France and the Euros that the Lionesses won on home soil last summer following knee injuries.

A year on from that latest disappointment, there was joy for Nobbs as she was included in England boss Sarina Wiegman’s 23 for the forthcoming World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, at the end of a season that saw her make a January move from Arsenal to Aston Villa.

Jordan Nobbs thrilled to be part of England World Cup squad after past setbacks

Great moments from the World Cup so far...

13:23 , Mike Jones

Battling display from Irish debutants

The Matildas were expected to have an easier ride than their co-hosts, but Ireland were in no mood to offer safe passage towards three points on their World Cup debut in Sydney.

It took a second-half penalty from Steph Catley to see off Vera Pauw’s newcomers, after Marissa Sheva shoved Hayley Raso to the ground.

Australia were missing Sam Kerr with the Chelsea forward also set to be absent for the next game against Nigeria, and struggled to break down the Republic during a first half of few chances.

Ireland manager Vera Pauw said: “Sam Kerr is of course one of, if not the top striker in the world so the fact that she did not play was a surprise for us but Australia have so many fast and attacking players that our game plan did not change because of that.”

Great moments from the World Cup so far...

13:14 , Mike Jones

New Zealand stun Norway

Expectations for 1995 champions Norway are not what they once were, particularly in the wake of a group stage exit at Euro 2022 and an 8-0 mauling at the hands of England, but few anticipated them to fall to New Zealand at Eden Park.

But Jitka Klimkova’s underdogs delivered a memorable curtain raiser thanks to Hannah Wilkinson’s 48th-minute goal in front of more than 42,000 ecstatic supporters, a record for a football match in the country

It was the team’s 16th attempt at winning a match at the finals and could have been made sweeter had Ria Percival not struck a post from the penalty spot late on after handball was given against Tuva Hansen.

“The expectations, we will put those on ourselves first,” said goalscorer Wilkinson. “We’ll take momentum from this first win into the next game.

“It’s incredibly important that we secure a space outside of this group and we can do that in this next game.”

Netherlands made to train on cricket pitch at Women’s World Cup: ‘It’s amateurism’

13:05 , Mike Jones

The Netherlands have accused the Women’s World Cup of amateurish organisation as they complained about their training conditions in New Zealand, but they are still using the Bay Oval in Tauranga to prepare for their opening game on Sunday.

Coach Andries Jonker told reporters he feared his players could be injured on the field, which has a hard cricket pitch in the middle, and which the Dutch had asked be taken out months ago.

“When we arrived here on Wednesday, I thought, ‘What is this now? I will not train on this,’” he said of the test cricket venue in the Bay of Plenty area.

Netherlands made to train on cricket pitch at Women’s World Cup: ‘It’s amateurism’

Women’s World Cup groups: A comprehensive guide to each squad

12:56 , Mike Jones

The Women’s World Cup is finally here as the biggest tournament ever kicks off in Australia and New Zealand.

The first 32-team Women’s World Cup is set to be one of the most open yet, with a host of teams challenging to dethrone the two-time defending champions United States.

England head ‘Down Under’ full of belief after their Euros success on home soil last summer, but that is also set to inspire co-hosts Australia and their star forward Sam Kerr.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the 2023 Women’s World Cup, including group guides, players to watch, and how to follow on TV .

Women’s World Cup groups: A comprehensive guide to each squad

Who is the team to beat at the Women’s World Cup?

12:47 , Mike Jones

The United States remain the team to beat ahead of the Women’s World Cup and the two-time defending champions remain number one in the Fifa rankings ahead of the tournament.

The USA are looking to become the first country to win three World Cups in a row and have held top spot since 2017.

But the tournament in Australia and New Zealand could bring a shake-up to the order. Europe is catching up and the likes of England, Germany, France and Spain will be coming for the USA’s crown.

Zambia come into the World Cup as the lowest-ranked team at the tournament, which is hosting 32 teams for the first time.

England mascot Dave the cat supporting Lionesses from his new home

12:38 , Mike Jones

England’s unlikely World Cup mascot will be watching the Lionesses from his forever home as Dave the cat settles into his new surroundings.

While football might not have come home from Qatar, stray cat Dave did after the friendly feline became a firm favourite of the squad as he roamed freely around England’s Al Wakrah training base.

Manchester City duo John Stones and Kyle Walker were pictured with Dave on most evenings and the latter said the team would adopt the cat if Gareth Southgate’s men won the World Cup.

Despite their quarter-final exit at the hands of France, Dave was still given the chance to travel to the UK and was eventually rehomed by the Football Association’s media operations manager Anna Bush and her family.

England mascot Dave the cat supporting Lionesses from his new home

England’s Lionesses park controversial bonus row on eve of Women’s World Cup

12:29 , Mike Jones

The England women’s team took the decision to pause controversial negotiations over World Cup bonuses in order to show it was “on their terms”, but also make clear their anger and disappointment with the Football Association over an issue that could have developed into a huge distraction on the eve of the tournament.

There is similarly a determination the issue isn’t parked once the competition ends, and that the federation have got the message over how payment structures need to be clarified going forward.

There has still been some debate over the merits of the strategy, particularly as the FA had already been insistent that all discussions be delayed until after the campaign. While that could be seen as bending to what the association want, there is also the risk now that the England squad lose their leverage in the event of going out of the competition unexpectedly early.

England park controversial bonus row on eve of Women’s World Cup

England prepare for first match against Haiti

12:20 , Mike Jones

England's preparations for their opening match of the 2023 World Cup are going well. The Lionesses went through a training session at Spencer Park in Brisbane earlier today buoyed on by the news that captain Millie Bright will be fit to feature in the first game.

The Lionesses kick off their World Cup campaign against Haiti on Saturday July 22nd in Brisbane.

Haiti team guide: Women’s World Cup squad and who to watch

12:11 , Mike Jones

Haiti have nothing to lose on their Women’s World Cup debut as they join England, Denmark and China in Group D.

Ranked 53rd in the world, Haiti are one of eight teams playing at the Women’s World Cup for the first time, a stage that reached via the inter-continental play-offs.

Rising star Melchie Dumornay scored twice in their final 2-1 victory over Chile, and Haiti have the talent to cause further upsets if they can balance their ambition with defensive organisation.

Haiti team guide: Women’s World Cup squad and who to watch

Who’s in the Lionesses’ group at the Women’s World Cup?

12:02 , Mike Jones

Denmark

Denmark will be making their first appearance at a Women’s World Cup since 2007 and will be desperate to make up for lost time. They will hope to test England in Group D and challenge for a place in the last-16.

Head coach Lars Søndergaard will say goodbye to Denmark after the World Cup after seven years in charge but the team have had their confidence boosted by recent wins against Norway, Japan and Sweden. Søndergaard, who asks his side to sit deep before breaking on the counter-attack, preferes to field a 3-4-3 formation that can switch to 4-3-3 during sustained attacks.

Meanwhile, Pernille Harder is one of the top players in the world and will be a familiar face to England fans after three successful seasons spent in the Women’s Super League with Chelsea, who she joined for a world-record fee in 2020.

The skillful and tireless attacker leads the line for Denmark, who cannot afford to leave her isolated. One of the game’s most decorated players, Harder will be making her World Cup debut.

Who’s in the Lionesses’ group at the Women’s World Cup?

11:53 , Mike Jones

China

Shui Qingxia took charge of China after the 2021 Olympics and led China to victory in the 2022 Asian Cup, where they beat Korea Republic in the final and Japan in the semis.

A former midfielder who won five Asian Cups and the Olympic silver medal as a player, Qingxia is China’s first female coach and has brought glory back to the team as manager. She admitted that their European opponents in Group D are ahead of China, but their Asian Cup win should give them confidence.

China reached the World Cup final in 1999 during the team’s golden era, where they lost to the United States.

China’s captain Wang Shanshan is a wonder: a veteran striker with a tendency to score crucial goals, the 33-year-old can also help out defensively by playing at centre-back for the team.

Who’s in the Lionesses’ group at the Women’s World Cup?

11:44 , Mike Jones

Haiti

There is considerable excitement around the 19-year-old Melchie Dumornay, who has signed a pre-contract with European powerhouse Lyon ahead of the new season.

The midfielder scored twice as Haiti beat Chile in the inter-continental play-offs to qualify for the World Cup and is regarded as one of the best young players in the world. “You can’t compare Melchie with any other player, she’s special,” team-mate Jennyfer Limage told Fifa.

Haiti have nothing to lose on their World Cup debut and with players such as the exciting Dumornay, they have the talent to cause an upset if they can balance their ambition with defence organisation.

Frenchman Nicolas Delepine helped spark scenes of national celebration when Haiti qualified for their first ever World Cup by beating Chile in the play-off final.

With the majority of the Haiti team already playing France, Delepine took the job from French club Grenoble Foot 38 and wants his team to play quick, attacking football.

11:35 , Mike Jones

England goalkeeper Mary Earps says Nike’s decision to not sell her kit during the Women’s World Cup is “hurtful” and “hugely disappointing”.

England’s home and away kits are available for fans to buy, but the Lionesses goalkeeper kits have not been put up for sale by the team’s kit supplier.

Earps was England’s goalkeeper when they won the Euros last summer and the Manchester United star was named Fifa’s Best Women’s Goalkeeper for 2022.

Earps said England captain Millie Bright had told her she wanted to buy her kit for her niece, only to find it wasn’t available for purchase.

England goalkeeper Mary Earps hits out at Nike over kit decision: ‘Very hurtful’

Kelly Smith colum: Daly or Russo? I know who I would start

11:26 , Jamie Braidwood

Tournament football is about solving problems, quickly and effectively. While Sarina Wiegman, assistant Arjan Veurink, and the rest of the coaching team will be devising plans to see off England’s World Cup opponents, a lot comes down to how teams react on the pitch to what is in front of them.

That is especially true when facing teams who want to sit deep against a team of England’s undoubted strength, where unlocking packed back lines with 10 or 11 behind the ball will be crucial.

Against cautious opponents – which is what England will face in the group stage when they play Haiti, Denmark and China – taking chances is the key. Scoring not only puts you up, but it also alters the stage of the game, it will invite the opposition forwards to try to get one back, and there is the psychological impact. There is nothing more disheartening than defending superbly for 20 or 30 minutes and then conceding from the first real opportunity.

Column by Lionesses legend Kelly Smith

Kelly Smith: Rachel Daly or Alessia Russo for England? I know who I would start

England women’s route to the final

11:18 , Mike Jones

What are England’s potential paths to the final?

If England win Group D

7 August: Winners Group D vs Runners-up Group B (08:30, Brisbane)

12 August: Winner Match 54 vs Winner Match 56 (11:30, Sydney)

16 August: Winner QF3 vs Winner QF4 (11:00, Sydney)

20 August: Winner SF1 vs Winner SF2 (11:00, Sydney)

If England are runner-up in Group D

7 August: Runners-up Group B vs Runners-up Group D (11:30, Sydney)

12 August: Winner Match 53 vs Winner Match 55 (08:00, Brisbane)

16 August: Winner QF3 vs Winner QF4 (11:00, Sydney)

20 August: Winner SF1 vs Winner SF2 (11:00, Sydney)

England women’s route to the final

11:10 , Mike Jones

England enter the World Cup as one of the favourites as the Lionesses look to build on their victory at the European Championships last summer by winning the game’s biggest prize.

England have reached the semi-finals on their last two World Cup appearances in 2015 and 2019 and will be dreaming of going one step further in Australia and New Zealand.

But how do they get there?

The Lionesses were among the top seeds ahead of the World Cup draw and were placed in Group D, along with China, Denmark, and one of the winners of the inter-confederation play-offs.

That was where Haiti defeated Senegal and then Chile to qualify for the World Cup for the first time and complete the four-team group.

China, ranked 15th in the world, were among the lowest ranked teams in Pot 2 while Denmark, ranked 18th, were the top team in Pot 3. Haiti are ranked 57th in the world, the second lowest at the tournament.

The group stages shouldn’t pose too much of a threat to Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses and they’ll hope to prove their credentials as one of the tournament favourites by comfortably finishing top of the group.

Women’s World Cup: England team news for Haiti

11:02 , Jamie Braidwood

England captain Millie Bright has been given the all-clear to start their World Cup opener against Haiti, with Sarina Wiegman having a fully-fit squad to choose from.

Bright has not played a competitive match since March but has recovered from knee surgery in time to lead England into their Group D opener in Brisbane.

Wiegman said she has yet to decide her starting line-up, and the manager has decisions to make at left-back and at No 9, where Alessia Russo and Rachel Daly are competing for a place.

Predicted line-up - England XI: Earps; Bronze, Bright, Carter, Greenwood; Walsh, Stanway, Toone; James, Daly, Hemp

Women’s World Cup: The defining question facing England

10:48 , Jamie Braidwood

Since arriving in Australia, Sarina Wiegman has stepped up work on a new system, that may not even be unveiled until the knock-out stages. It is an inherent acknowledgement that England are no longer in the strong position they were, but simultaneously something that may yet prove the winning of this World Cup.

This has been reflected in the mood of the camp in Australia, beyond the distraction over bonuses. There is certainly no lack of faith, especially in Wiegman’s ability to come up with something special. This is another benefit of a feat like the Euro 2022 victory. It banishes doubts, and fosters that immensely powerful feeling that everything will go well because the manager knows exactly what they are doing. It is why big games, as in that juncture quarter-final win over Spain, can almost seem like they will go exactly as Wiegman predicts.

There’s also the fact that, right now, the manager has one of the most talented teams in the world. For so long, this has seemed like the moment England were long building up to.

The question now is whether that moment just comes at the wrong time.

By Miguel Delaney

England’s World Cup hinges on a defining question

Women’s World Cup: How to watch England vs Haiti on TV

10:45 , Jamie Braidwood

England begin their Women’s World Cup 2023 campaign against Haiti tomorrow.

Haiti are playing in their first World Cup and face a major challenge against Sarina Wiegman’s European champions England, as well as Denmark and China, who meet later in Perth in the other Group D clash.

England are one of the most fancied teams at the tournament, along with double-reigning champions USA and Spain, though Wiegman is contending with a squad depleted by several key injuries.

This match takes place at Brisbane Stadium and kick-off is at 7.30pm local time (10.30am in the UK).

Here is everything you need to know about how to watch England’s first 2023 World Cup match.

Women’s World Cup: How to watch England vs Haiti on TV

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

10:28 , Jamie Braidwood

Three points for Spain and a very comfortable opening match for La Roja. Aitana Bonmati’s goal midway through the first half and the return of Alexia Putellas in the second half very much the highlights of the day.

Player of the match, though, was Costa Rica’s goalkeeper Solera. Spain had 46 shots across the game but were kept to their three first-half goals.

Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

10:27 , Jamie Braidwood

90+4 mins: Costa Rica are very close to earning a ‘0-0 draw’ in the second half. Spain have had so much of the ball and all of the chances, with substitute Alba Redondo the latest to go close, but Costa Rica have shown so much spirit in this second half to keep the score down.

Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

10:15 , Jamie Braidwood

82 mins: Putellas goes down in the box after tumbling over an outstretched leg, but then plays a sublime ball around the corner to Mariona.

Spain up to 40 shots now...

Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

10:10 , Jamie Braidwood

77 mins: Alexia Putellas is back! The two-time Ballon d’Or winner makes her long-awaited return to a major tournament after missing the Euros last summer. Spain will want to get her back into the starting line-up as soon as possible.

Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

10:06 , Jamie Braidwood

72 mins: Costa Rica look like they would be happy to shake hands on 3-0 right now. Goalkeeper Solera was down with an injury but it looks as if she will try and battle on.

Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

09:56 , Jamie Braidwood

Spain are up to 36 shots for the match, and we’re only about two-thirds of the way through.

Paralleulo goes close again with a flicked header that fades away from the far post.

Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

09:49 , Jamie Braidwood

Brilliant save! Spain are turning on the style now as Paralleulo dances inside the box and drives a shot towards the top corner. Costa Rica goalkeeper Daniela Solera is the busiest player on the pitch at the moment and makes another excellent save to tip it over the bar.

Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

09:43 , Jamie Braidwood

Off the bar! So close from Olga Carmona - the left back smashes a strike from the angle that thuds of the top of the upright.

Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

09:39 , Jamie Braidwood

Back underway in Wellington! Incredibly, Spain had only ever won one match at the Women’s World Cup before today. They were winless in 2015, including a draw against Costa Rica, before they reached the last-16 four years ago. Spain have much grander ambitions this time around.

Sarina Wiegman insists England will give ‘everything’ to lift Women’s World Cup

09:33 , Jamie Braidwood

England boss Sarina Wiegman vowed the Lionesses would do “everything” they can to bring home a first World Cup when they begin their campaign against Haiti in Brisbane on Saturday.

Wiegman also provided a welcome update on captain Millie Bright, who is fit to start tomorrow’s contest after concerns she was still recovering from the knee injury she sustained in March which required surgery.

The World Cup trophy is one that has so far eluded both England and Wiegman, who led the Netherlands to the final four years ago in France but fell to defeat at the hands of the United States.

Asked if England could lift the trophy this year, she said: “We’re here and we have a dream, and of course there’s always a chance to win the World Cup, and many more countries can win the World Cup I think, but of course we’re going to give our everything starting tomorrow.”

Sarina Wiegman insists England will give ‘everything’ to lift Women’s World Cup

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

09:23 , Jamie Braidwood

Spain take a comfortable lead into half-time after finding what was a crucial breakthrough against Costa Rica. Since going ahead, Spain have looked far more confident, with their build-up play being able to pull Costa Rica’s deep defence out of shape.

Bonmati’s goal was the highlight of a statement performance so far.

Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

09:14 , Jamie Braidwood

43 mins: Spain will always take chances on the ball and they are almost caught out as Parades plays it back to goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez, who narrowly avoids being closed down by a Costa Rica forward.

SAVED PENALTY! Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

09:08 , Jamie Braidwood

Penalty! Well, it’s the fifth game of the World Cup, and we have our fifth penalty of the tournament! Olga Carmona goes down in the box after a wild sliding challenge, giving Hermoso the chance to add Spain’s fourth.

But as Hermoso stutters, Daniela Solera holds her ground... and saves! Great moment for the goalkeeper.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup: Spain 3-0 Costa Rica

08:59 , Jamie Braidwood

And it’s three! Inside half an hour, Spain have themselves a commanding lead. Teresa Abelleira’s cross to the far post finds Jenni Hermoso but her header crashes off the underside of the bar. It drops to Esther Gonzalez, who hooks in the third.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup: Spain 2-0 Costa Rica

08:54 , Jamie Braidwood

AITANA BONMATI! This is so, so good from the Spain star. She shifts the ball superbly out from under her feet with a lovely couple of touches in the box, before firing a brilliant left-foot shot into the far corner. Wonderful from Bonmati.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup: Spain 1-0 Costa Rica

08:53 , Jamie Braidwood

Breakthrough! Well, it had been coming. Spain’s movement and passing is too good. Bonmati’s flick releases Gonzalez in the inside left channel - the striker fires it across goal and it deflects in off the unfortunate defender Valeria del Campo.

Spain lead through the first own goal of the tournament.

Women’s World Cup: Spain 0-0 Costa Rica

08:49 , Jamie Braidwood

18 mins: The pressure continues from Spain - they have had 85 per cent of the possession in the opening stages. Costa Rica are setting very deep and are hanging on for dear life.

England goalkeeper Mary Earps hits out at Nike over kit decision: ‘Very hurtful’

08:46 , Jamie Braidwood

England goalkeeper Mary Earps says Nike’s decision to not sell her kit during the Women’s World Cup is “hurtful” and “hugely disappointing”.

England’s home and away kits are available for fans to buy, but the Lionesses goalkeeper shirts have not been put up for sale by the team’s kit supplier.

Earps was England’s goalkeeper when they won the Euros last summer and the Manchester United star was named Fifa’s Best Women’s Goalkeeper for 2022.

Earps said England captain Millie Bright had told her she wanted to buy her kit for her niece, only to find it wasn’t available for purchase.

England goalkeeper Mary Earps hits out at Nike over kit decision: ‘Very hurtful’

Women’s World Cup: Spain 0-0 Costa Rica

08:43 , Jamie Braidwood

9 mins: Chance! Lovely build-up from Spain - Athenea del Castillo fires in a cross to Esther Gonzalez, who tries to flick a backheel towards the backpost.

Spain threaten again and Costa Rica goalkeeper Daniela Solera does very well to tip the header from Ivana Andrés over the bar.

Women’s World Cup: Spain 0-0 Costa Rica

08:38 , Jamie Braidwood

It’s a very heavy pitch in Wellington after all the rain - which could make things difficult for Spain’s technical players as they look to pass and play their way through Costa Rica.

KICK-OFF! Women’s World Cup: Spain 0-0 Costa Rica

08:33 , Jamie Braidwood

Underway! No Alexia Putellas for Spain, but loads of star quality still on display, particulary in Aitana Bonmati and Salma Paralluelo.

Women’s World Cup: Spain vs Costa Rica

08:27 , Jamie Braidwood

Almost set for kick-off in Wellington, where it looks very cold. It has also just started raining.

Zambia and Japan are also in Group C - they play their first match tomorrow.

Women’s World Cup: Spain vs Costa Rica

08:21 , Jamie Braidwood

Key player - Costa Rica

Raquel Rodriguez is Costa Rica’s record scorer with 55 goals, including the country’s first at a World Cup on their only previous appearance in 2015. The Portland Thorns midfielder, who has won over 100 caps for Costa Rica, has urged her team-mates to battle with passion and commitment as they look to claim a first-ever World Cup win.

The coach

Amelia Valverde took charge of Costa Rica before their previous World Cup appearance in 2015, and at the age of just 28. She remains in charge and has guided the country back to the World Cup thanks to a fourth-place finish at the 2022 Concacaf Championships. Valverde made the controversial call to leave the 37-year-old Shirley Cruz, Costa Rica’s greatest ever player and former captain, out of her squad for the World Cup.

Women’s World Cup: Spain vs Costa Rica

08:10 , Jamie Braidwood

Key player - Spain

Aitana Bonmati. When an ACL injury robbed two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas of the chance to play at the Euros last summer and then took away almost all of the following season, it handed her international and club team-mate Bonmati the opportunity to play further forward for Barcelona. How she took it. Arguably the best player in the world over the past year, the midfielder is technically flawless and has unlocked the ability to contribute even more goals and assists. Although Putellas is now back and will likely grab the attention, Bonmati deserves her own recognition.

The coach

Jorge Vilda is perhaps the most divisive head coach at the World Cup, and that’s not just among Spain’s pool of players. Vilda faced criticism for his team selections last summer as Spain finished runner-up to Germany in the group stages of the Euros and were then knocked out by England in the quarter-finals. He survived with his job, and did so again as players walked out on the team. He is theoretically under pressure again with Spain’s golden generation expected to compete for the title, but he also has the backing of the federation.

Women’s World Cup: Spain vs Costa Rica

08:06 , Jamie Braidwood

Alexia Putellas starts on the bench for Spain as they begin their World Cup campaign against Costa Rica. The two-time Ballon d’Or winner is still coming back to full fitness after missing most of the season from an ACL injury.

Spain XI: Rodriguez, Batlle, Paredes, Andres, Carmona, Bonmati, Abelleira, del Castillo, Hermoso, Paralluelo, Gonzale

Subs: Caldentey, Codina, Coll, Galvez, Guerrero, Hernandez, Navarro, Perez, Putellas, Rebondo, Salon, Zornoza

Costa Rica XI: Solera, Fabiola Villalobos, Benavides, Del Campo, Coto, Alvarado, Gloriana Villalobos, Elizondo, Herrera, Salas, Chinchilla

Subs: Campos, Estrada, Granados, Guillen, Perez, Pinell, Rodriguez, Sanchez, Scott, Tapia, Valenciano, Varela

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup: Switzerland 2-0 Philippines

08:00 , Jamie Braidwood

It’s an opening victory for Switzerland at the Women’s World Cup as they defeat Philippines 2-0 to go top of Group A.

A first-half penalty from Ramona Bachmann, the fourth to be awarded in as many games so far at the tournament, set the Swiss on their way before Seraina Piubel made sure of the three points after the break.

Philippines were competitive on their World Cup debut and thought they had taken the lead, only for Katrina Guillou’s finish to be disallowed by the offside flag.

Switzerland will take on Norway next, while Philippines face hosts New Zealand. The Football Ferns defeated Norway in their opening match yesterday, in what was their first ever win at the World Cup.

Women’s World Cup 2023: Every kit, ranked

07:34 , Jamie Braidwood

The battle for the Women’s World Cup is underway, but the contest for the best kit at the tournament has never been stronger.

The biggest ever Women’s World Cup means there are more new shirts to dive into than ever before, while Nike and Adidas have taken their creative experimentation process to another level in Australia and New Zealand.

Like in 2019, the Women’s World Cup features a host of unique designs - with Adidas unveiling a selection of nature-themed kits and Nike taking inspiration from various artistic movements. The results are wild.

Here are the Women’s World Cup 2023 kits, ranked and rated from worst to best:

Every Women’s World Cup kit ranked and rated

GOAL! Women’s World Cup: Switzerland 2-0 Philippines

07:28 , Jamie Braidwood

Switzerland double their lead! Wing-back Geraldine Reuteler flies down the left, getting to the byline. She cuts it back to find Crnogorcevic, whose effort is saved from six yards. Sow is unable to put home the rebound but it is eventually scrambled in by Seraina Piubel, who thrashes it past Olivia Davies-McDaniel to put Switzerland in a commanding position.

Women’s World Cup: England captain Millie Bright fit to start

07:11 , Jamie Braidwood

England captain Millie Bright is fit to start tomorrow’s opening game against Haiti, Sarina Wiegman has confirmed.

The centre-back has not played a full match since March after undergoing knee surgery but has made a full recovery in time for England’s first game of the World Cup.

The Lionesses have a fully-fit squad ahead of playing Haiti and Wiegman said Bright is “absolutely” ready to start.

“We’re happy,” Wiegman said. “This was the plan. The plan worked and Millie is ready to play.”

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup: Switzerland 1-0 Philippines

06:54 , Jamie Braidwood

Bachmann’s penalty is the difference at the break, after the fourth spot-kick in as many games at this World Cup so far.

Philippines have been competitive on their first ever World Cup match, and were denied the opening goal by a clear offside.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup: Switzerland 1-0 Philippines

06:48 , Jamie Braidwood

The penalty is converted by Ramona Bachmann, who has probably been the best player on the pitch so far. It’s harsh on Philippines, but Switzerland had started to increase the pressure and the goal did feel like it was coming.

PENALTY! Women’s World Cup: Switzerland 0-0 Philippines

06:46 , Jamie Braidwood

Four matches at the World Cup, four penalties!

This time Switzerland have one, after Jessika Cowart catches Coumba Sow in the box with a late challenge. Was it enough to award the penalty? For me, no.

Women’s World Cup: Switzerland 0-0 Philippines

06:39 , Jamie Braidwood

CHANCE! Switzerland are getting closer. Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic lifts a golden chance over the crossbar from six yards after a low ball across the face of goal. Switzerland are starting to get round the sides of the Philippines, who are hanging in there.

England make decision on armbands for Women’s World Cup matches

06:30 , Jamie Braidwood

England captain Millie Bright will wear armbands advocating for inclusion, Indigenous People and gender equality in the Lionesses’ respective first three World Cup matches, the FA has confirmed.

Players have the choice of wearing one or more of eight FIFA-sanctioned armbands at this tournament, but not the rainbow OneLove design that sparked the threat of sanctions being issued to countries – including England and Wales – during the 2022 men’s World Cup in Qatar.

Should the Lionesses progress past the group stage, which begins with Saturday’s opener against Haiti, the player-led decision is for their skipper to switch out her armband to a new cause for each match.

Bright said: “As a group, we felt really strongly about all the causes, and we couldn’t separate one from the other. We feel that they are all important and deserve recognition and our support.

“We have only just come to a decision recently as we wanted to take time to process it all and to make sure we spoke collectively.”

England make decision on armbands for Women’s World Cup matches

NO GOAL! Women’s World Cup: Switzerland 0-0 Philippines

06:19 , Jamie Braidwood

WHAT A MOMENT FOR THE PHILIPPINES! But no! It’s denied by the offside flag!

They thought they had taken the lead against Switzerland, as Katrina Guillou latched onto a long ball, rounded the goalkeeper and finished into the net!

But Guillou went too early, and the offside flag eventually goes up.

Still 0-0.

Women’s World Cup: Switzerland vs Philippines

06:06 , Jamie Braidwood

We’re underway in Dunedin as Switzerland face World Cup debutants Philippines in Group A - which is wide open following New Zealand’s win over Norway yesterday.

Here’s how you can watch every World Cup game in the UK.

What channel is the Women’s World Cup on? How to watch every match

Women’s World Cup 2023: Canada 0-0 Nigeria

06:01 , Jamie Braidwood

There was a red card later in the game for Nigeria’s Deborah Abiodun for this tackle on Ashley Lawrence. Fortunately Lawrence seemed to escape a serious injury.

Women’s World Cup 2023: Canada 0-0 Nigeria

05:59 , Jamie Braidwood

Here’s the moment Chiamaka Nnadozie denied Canada and Christine Sinclair.

What a save!

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