Discover how England stacks up against the USWNT at iconic Wembley clash | OneFootball

The iconic Wembley Stadium, one of the most emblematic venues in global sports, will host a highly anticipated showdown between the USWNT and England this Saturday, November 30. This match brings together the two top-ranked teams in FIFA's standings, showcasing the pinnacle of women's soccer. With storied success and star-studded rosters, this clash promises excitement until the final whistle.

The USWNT heads into the match as the world's top-ranked team, further cementing its status as a powerhouse in women's soccer under Emma Hayes' leadership. Officially hired in November 2023, Hayes wasted no time leaving her mark, guiding the U.S. to Olympic gold in Paris and reclaiming the top spot in FIFA's rankings.

With a record of 17 wins, one draw, and just one loss in 2024, the team has been nothing short of consistent, particularly on the road. The Americans boast nine straight victories and an 18-match unbeaten streak, not having lost an away game since January 2023.

Hayes, who grew up less than 10 miles away from Wembley, knows the venue well. With a personal record of six wins and only one loss in this iconic stadium, Hayes now aims to extend that success against one of the strongest teams in the world.

The Lionesses face a tough test amid key absences

England, reigning European champions and World Cup runners-up, goes into this match without a few of its key players: Lauren Hemp, Lauren James, and Ella Toone, all out with injuries. Even so, coach Sarina Wiegman can still boast a roster replete with talent and experience. Lucy Bronze, Alex Greenwood, and Millie Bright anchor the defense, while Beth Mead, Golden Boot winner at Euro 2022, leads the attack.

Recent history favors the Lionesses, who beat the USWNT two out of their last three games, including an October 2022 victory over the States 2-1 in front of 76,000 at Wembley. To navigate this tough game, Wiegman has brought into camp emerging stars such as Laura Blindkilde Brown and Ruby Mace, in addition to NWSL players Jess Carter and Esme Morgan.

A balanced history with unforgettable moments The USWNT-England rivalry is one characterized by close matches. The teams have faced each other 19 times, with the U.S. winning 12, England winning five, and two ending in draws. An astonishing eight of the last nine were determined by a single goal, demonstrating just how equal these sides are.

The win for England in 2022 was massive. Lauren Hemp struck early, but Sophia Smith leveled for the U.S. with a powerful finish following defensive pressure. Georgia Stanway then converted a penalty to seal England's win while a possible American goal was controversially ruled offside by VAR.

Another unforgettable encounter took place in the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup semifinals when the USWNT emerged victorious with a 2-1 win. Alex Morgan scored the winning goal, and goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher made a crucial penalty save in the final minutes of the game to seal the Americans' spot in the final.

Wembley's role as England's fortress

Wembley Stadium has been the stage for some of England’s greatest triumphs, including their historic Euro 2022 victory. In front of a record-breaking crowd of 87,000, England defeated Germany 2-1 in extra time, with Chloe Kelly scoring the dramatic winner. That victory cemented the Lionesses' legacy in women’s soccer history.

In those scenarios, though, the USWNT outshines them in all-time Wembley matchup victories. It's a real chance now, with this home soil advantage and Wiegman's tactical acumen, for England to grab the bull by the horns and keep strengthening their positioning as an important player on the stage.

With two elite teams fighting for dominance, Saturday's showdown promises to be far more than a friendly. For the USWNT, it's an opportunity to reinforce their reign under Hayes. For England, the Lionesses look to prove that they can go toe-to-toe with the best in the world despite the setbacks of late.

With Emma Hayes making her return to coach on home soil, Sarina Wiegman testing the depth in her lineup, this could be the type of matchup at Wembley that shows everything that has made women's soccer-just flat-out exciting-intense rivalries and phenomenal talent on display.