England To Face Japan and Norway In Friendlies In November 2022 – Sport Grill

England will face Japan and Norway in international friendlies in November 2022, as part of preparation for 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. 

Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses will head to Pinatar Arena, Murcia, Spain for two international friendlies at a neutral venue, as part of their preparation for next summer’s Women’s World Cup with Japan and Norway confirmed as the friendly opposition.

England will face Japan on Friday 11 November followed by Norway on Tuesday 15 November, with kick-off times set to be confirmed in due course whilst live TV coverage will be available on ITV with exact broadcast details set to be revealed closer to the match dates.

“I am really pleased we can continue to test ourselves against strong opposition, especially as we are fully focused on our preparation for the World Cup,” commented Wiegman on facing Japan and Norway in their final fixtures of 2022.

Wiegman also acknowledged that Japan can’t be underestimated as she added: “Japan are one of the best teams in Asia and offer a different style of play to what we are used to.”

Their friendly against Norway meanwhile will be the first clash between both teams since the Lionesses thrashed the Norwegians 8-0 in Group A en-route to title success at 2022 UEFA Women’s Euro in July.

Wiegman however is wary of a repeat performance as she explained: “Norway had a difficult summer, however they qualified directly for the World Cup and I am confident they will bounce back.

“They have always proven to be a strong opponent, and the staff and players will look forward to welcoming Hege again too.”

On her overall expectations of what England will get out of these two friendlies in Murcia, Wiegman concluded: “With both teams wanting to make a good impression as they build towards a major tournament, it will be a great opportunity to see where we stand.

“Furthermore, I hope a change of scenery and good climate for that time of year can contribute to keeping the players fresh after what has been an exciting and at the same time intense year for all.”

The FA have confirmed that tickets for both friendly fixtures will be released in October with full details to be announced in coming weeks.

Next month will also see England host reigning world champions – USA plus Czech Republic in friendlies at Wembley Stadium and AMEX Stadium respectively, on 7 & 11 October respectively.