England to play Senegal and Wales in friendlies

England will take on Senegal at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground in June, followed by a match against Wales at Wembley in October, the Football Association confirmed on Wednesday.

The two friendlies complete England’s 2025 schedule, which is primarily focused on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Thomas Tuchel will make his debut as England manager next month, leading the Three Lions in World Cup qualifiers at home against Albania and Latvia. The Euro 2024 finalists also have Serbia and Andorra on their qualification path.

The City Ground, home of Nottingham Forest, has not hosted an England senior men’s competitive fixture since March 1909, when the Three Lions defeated Wales 2-0 in the Home Championship.

England will face Senegal on June 10, marking a test against a strong African side, while their clash against Wales on October 9 promises to be a fiery British derby.

Tuchel, speaking on the announcement, expressed excitement over the challenges ahead:

“The games 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 rich football heritage and then a derby match at the iconic Wembley—two big occasions that can only help us on the road to the World Cup.”

He also emphasized the importance of taking England games beyond Wembley:

“While I know Wembley is our home, I also understand the importance of taking the team around the country when we are able to. The opportunity to experience playing at a famous old English stadium such as the City Ground is one we can all look forward to.”