The group of death?! England's Lionesses drawn with France, Sweden and the Republic of Ireland in qualifying for 2025 UEFA Women's Euro

England were placed in Group A3 in Tuesday's qualifying draw, needing to finish in the top two places to qualify automatically for the Euros. If they finish third or fourth, there is still the chance to qualify but through the more complicated process of the play-offs.

Speaking about England's draw, head coach Sarina Wiegman said: “It's a tough draw but it is a really exciting draw. Now we just have to show up and perform. For the fans and for football, it is really good because it will be so competitive.

"France have a very good squad and they showed their qualities by reaching the Nations League final. I'm really excited because we haven’t faced them during my time as England head coach.

"Sweden struggled in the Nations League but over the years, they have performed so well. They are a top country with top players in their squad, many of whom we know from the Women's Super League. They've been at the top level all of that time and they will want to show again that they still belong to the top level of European and world football.

“The games with the Republic of Ireland will be really competitive. The two countries are obviously close to each other so hopefully lots of fans will have the opportunity to go to watch those games. Like with Sweden, the players know each other so well and some play alongside our players, so I think they are another two games which will be competitive and have some special elements."

The Lionesses are the reigning European champions, beating Germany in extra time at Wembley in the summer of 2022. It was a first major tournament triumph for England on the women's side and they came so close to backing it up at the World Cup last summer, only to fall to a 1-0 defeat to Spain in that final. La Roja will be another hot favourite for the Euros next year, alongside nations like Germany, France and the Netherlands.

Wiegman has won the Euros twice, as she also triumphed with her home country of the Netherlands back in 2017. Germany have won the tournament more than any other nation, with a remarkable eight titles.

The first Euro 2025 qualifying games will be played during the April international break, with further details on all fixtures to be announced in due course.