England to face Senegal and Wales in 2025 friendlies

England have confirmed two international friendlies as part of their 2025 schedule, with the Three Lions set to take on Senegal and Wales alongside their World Cup qualifying matches.

The first fixture will see England return to Nottingham Forest’s City Ground for the first time since 1909, as they host Senegal on Tuesday, 10 June.

Later in the year, on Thursday, 9 October, Gareth Southgate’s side will welcome Wales to Wembley Stadium for a much-anticipated derby.

Key tests for England

Head coach Gareth Southgate expressed his excitement about the upcoming friendlies, highlighting the unique challenges each opponent presents.

The matches against Senegal and Wales will present good challenges for us against two very different opponents.

Facing a strong African team in a passionate city with a rich footballing heritage, then a derby match at the iconic Wembley; two great opportunities that can only help us on the road to the World Cup, he said.

England last faced Senegal in the 2022 FIFA World Cup round of 16, securing a convincing 3-0 victory with goals from Jordan Henderson, Harry Kane, and Bukayo Saka.

Meanwhile, their rivalry with Wales dates back to 1879, with England holding a dominant record of 69 wins, 21 draws, and 14 losses from 104 encounters.

Their most recent meeting came in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup, where England again triumphed 3-0.

Packed schedule ahead of World Cup qualification

The two friendlies will complement England’s qualification campaign for the 2026 World Cup, which is set to be hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

England, drawn in Group K, begin their qualifiers with back-to-back home games at Wembley, facing Albania on 21 March and Latvia on 24 March.

In September, they will play an away match against Andorra, with the venue yet to be confirmed.

Southgate also welcomed the opportunity to take his team beyond Wembley, particularly for the Senegal fixture.

While I know Wembley is our home, I also understand the importance of taking the team around the country when we can, and the opportunity to experience playing in a famous old English stadium like the City Ground is something we can all look forward to, he added.

With a blend of competitive friendlies and crucial qualifiers, England will have ample opportunities to fine-tune their squad as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup.