Manchester, England – In a surprising turn of events, the Lionesses are set to hand a debut to a goalkeeper in their friendly match against Brazil at the Etihad Stadium today, due to a minor elbow injury sustained by Hannah Hampton.
Hampton, who was a key player in England's Euro 2025 victory, saving two penalties in the final shootout against Spain, will be assessed ahead of Tuesday's game against Australia. Her absence creates an opportunity for one of the other three goalkeepers in the squad to make their senior debut. The contenders are Khiara Keating of Manchester City, Anna Moorhouse of Orlando Pride, and Sophie Baggaley of Brighton. Baggaley was called up to the squad to provide cover following Hampton's injury.
England head coach Sarina Wiegman confirmed Hampton's injury at a press conference on Friday. "Hannah Hampton is not available for tomorrow. She has a small elbow injury," Wiegman said. She added that Hampton would be assessed to determine her availability for the match against Australia on Tuesday.
Wiegman has already made her decision about who will start in goal against Brazil but has yet to reveal her choice publicly. "I have made the decision, but as always, we have to get through this session. Then, of course, I inform the team first before I inform you," she stated.
Speaking about the available goalkeeping options, Wiegman said, "Of course it's not nice to have an injury but it's not a major injury. It's also an opportunity for the other goalkeepers,". She highlighted the differences between Keating and Moorhouse, noting, "Khiara is very explosive on the line and has good skills playing out from the back. Anna is tall so good at defending crosses. At her club, they play a little differently and are more direct, so they are the differences".
The match against Brazil marks the beginning of a series of four friendlies for England as part of their "Homecoming Series," celebrating their European Championship success. Wiegman sees these games as a valuable opportunity to "try out new things, see new players, [and] see different combinations".
In addition to Hampton, Arsenal defender Lotte Wubben-Moy will also miss the game due to illness. Jess Park is out with a concussion. With Leah Williamson still recovering from knee surgery, Keira Walsh will captain the Lionesses.
Wiegman acknowledged the challenge Brazil will pose. "They're very physical and athletic. They have a lot of pace up front. They can play football but they also really want to play fast forward – so that will challenge us," she said. She also noted the "South American mentality" and flair that Brazil brings to the game.
Despite the changes, the Lionesses are aiming to continue building momentum as they prepare for the 2027 Women's World Cup.
