BBC Women's Football Weekly

Ellen White, Jen Beattie and Ben Haines consider the moments that led to Manchester City ending their decade-long wait for a WSL title. As for their top goal scorer Khadija Shaw, how significant would losing her to rivals Chelsea be? And what must City do to back up this season's success? With Brighton reaching their first ever women's FA cup final, manager Dario Vidosic joins the pod as they chase the club's first major silverware. What's clicked for them in what could end up being their best ever WSL season?  Plus, the panel have their say on Beth Mead's departure from Arsenal; how will she be remembered there and where is her next move?This episode discusses death and the loss of a parent. If you or someone you know is in need of help, visit www.bbc.co.uk/actionline. TIMECODES: 2:40 Manchester City win WSL title 10:40 Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw's influence 22'19 Dario Vidosic interview 32:32 Beth Mead leaves Arsenal 40:30 How does this season rank, as a spectacle?

Aston Villa midfielder Lucy Staniforth has announced her retirement from football at the end of the season and sits down with Em Sanders to discuss her decision at why she is 'at ease' with her career.The 33-year-old began her career at Sunderland in 2008 and has gone on to represent seven clubs, the most of any player in the Women's Super League. Staniforth also earned 17 caps for England and was an FA Cup runner-up in 2009 and 2013.Lucy chats to Em about the start of her journey, breaking into Sunderland's first team at the age of 16, her love-hate relationship with football over the years and shaking the 'Lucy the footballer' label as she starts a new life away from the pitch. Live commentary of Lucy's final WSL home game for Aston Villa, against Arsenal, is on Sports Extra on Saturday 9th at midday.

Ellen White, Jen Beattie and Ben Haines reflect on a busy weekend of football from European exits to the finale of the WSL 2 season.Arsenal’s hopes of defending their European title ended on Saturday as they were beaten by Lyon. The team react to a standout display from Melchie Dumournay and Arsenal’s European campaign as a whole. Barcelona also became the first club to reach six consecutive UWCL finals, but can we read anything into Alexia Putellas’ emotional departure from the pitch at the Camp Nou?Manchester City left it late to ensure that winning the Women's Super League remains in their hands. Ellen and Jen discuss the importance of City finding a way to win and touch on the brilliance of Lauren James after Chelsea secured European football for next season.Plus, the WSL 2 came to a dramatic conclusion with Birmingham City and Crystal Palace gaining promotion to the Women's Super League. Hayley Ladd joins the pod to chat Crystal Palace making an immediate return to the WSL and Martha Harris chats to the team about promotion parties after beating Charlton the final day to finish top of the table! Ellen, Jen and Ben also look ahead to this weekend’s FA Cup semi-finals as Brighton take on Liverpool and Chelsea welcome Manchester City to Stamford Bridge.TIMECODES: 02:11 - Arsenal’s hopes of defending their European title were ended by Lyon. 10:25 - Lyon and Barcelona will meet in the UWCL final, again! 15:30 - Round up of new WSL contracts and departure news. 16:55 - Manchester City seal a win in the Knaack of time! 18:55 - Chelsea confirm their spot in the Champions League next season. 21:40 - Ellen is set to be inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame! 23:38 - A dramatic final day in the WSL 2. 28:22 - Crystal Palace midfielder Hayley Ladd joins the pod. 34:40 - Birmingham City defender Martha Harris joins the pod. 40:09 - We look ahead to the FA Cup semi-finals.

Ahead of a crucial Champions League semi-final with Bayern Munich, Klara Bühl sits down with Ben Haines to chat life on and off the pitch.The German winger is the undisputed assist Queen in Europe this season and chats to Ben about finding the joy in football, how coaches get the best out of her and her football inspirations growing up.Klara also talks about her rapid rise after making her senior debut for SC Freiburg at just 16-years-old, major tournaments with Germany and Bayern Munich’s coffee club gatherings at Jovana Damnjanović’s cafe!TIMECODES: 01:09 - Klara sits down with Ben Haines. 01:55 - On the team culture at Bayern Munich. 04:58 - On her enjoyment on the game contributing to her form. 10:20 - Learning to find the joy in football. 13:55 - How would she describe her style of play and providing assists. 18:25 - On her football inspirations growing up. 21:00 - On her rapid rise after joining SC Freiburg. 24:55 - On her first major tournament with Germany 2019. 27:20 - On her positive mindset. 29:05 - On her mixed experience at Euro 2022. 32:20 - Life and creativity away from the pitch.

One day on from announcing her retirement, Chelsea and Lionesses legend Millie Bright sits down with Jo Currie to discuss her decision.A Euros winner in 2022, the 32-year-old has now left Chelsea after 294 appearances, eight Women's Super League titles, six FA Cups and four League Cups.Millie chats to Jo about being both ‘physically and mentally’ ready to say goodbye to football and how she has dealt with the most challenging two years of her life. Bright also reflects on her playing career, which has crossed two eras of women's football, and opens up on what the future holds.

Ellen, Jen and Ben digest a huge week, which saw WSL leaders Man City drop points and put Arsenal 90 minutes from the Champions League final. With Arsenal taking a 2-1 lead into the semi-final second leg; how were they able to handle Lyon? And can they keep it up? In the other semi, it's level between Bayern Munich and Barcelona where Franziska Kett was sent off for a hair-pull; are we seeing more of that as an offence? As for the WSL, Manchester City remain in the driving seat for the title, but how costly might Saturday's loss to Brighton prove to be?  And as Chelsea make a permanent move to Stamford Bridge and Brighton announce a new purpose-built stadium, how do clubs ensure that these projects work? And what do Ellen and Jen want to see as part of the plans? TIMECODES: 2:05 Arsenal show up in the second half of their semi 11:57 Flair on show between Bayern Munich and Barcelona  20:30 Is hair-pulling becoming more common in football or are we just more aware of it now?  23'14 Will Manchester City be concerned by dropping points at Brighton?  28:19 Manchester United's slump  32:56 Sam Kerr levels the Chelsea WSL goal scoring record 34:24 Sonia Bompastor and Sam Kerr on Chelsea's move to Stamford Bridge 35:15 Brighton release proposal for Europe's first purpose-built women's football stadium 42:57 WSL2 goes to the final day

Ahead of the Women’s Champions League semi-finals, Guillem Balagué sits down with Spain and Arsenal midfielder Mariona Caldentey, who is personally going for a fourth consecutive UWCL title, and a fifth overall!Mariona gives us an insight into her childhood on the island of Mallorca, moving to Barcelona at the age of 18 and how she’s adapted since moving to Arsenal July in 2024.Plus, the pair look ahead to facing European giants Lyon in the semi-finals this season, just how much the Champions League means to her and of course, discuss the growing rivalry on the international stage that is Spain vs the Lionesses!Commentary of both legs of Arsenal’s semi-final against Lyon will be on 5 Sports Extra and BBC Sounds.TIMECODES: 00:46 - Mariona sits down with Guillem. 01:17 - Mariona tells us about her childhood in Felanitx, on the island of Mallorca. 06:40 - On joining Barcelona at 18 years old. 08:50 - On moving to Arsenal back in the summer of 2024 and how she’s adapted. 12:24 - On the recognition she achieved during her first season in England. 15:45 - On her club captain Kim Little and playing at the Emirates. 21:20 - Looking back on last year’s Champions League win. 22:40 - Looking ahead to this year’s Champions League semi-final against Lyon. 28:50 - On the developing rivalry between Spain and the Lionesses.

Ellen, Jen and Ben are back together after their very own international breaks to react to the latest round of World Cup qualifying games and look ahead to a huge weekend of fixtures in the WSL and Champions League.The team reflect on the April international window which saw England go four wins from four and keep automatic qualification for next year's World Cup in their hands. Ellen and Jen discuss the standout performers for the Lionesses, plus they reflect on Scotland’s growth after back-to-back draws against Belgium.As the WSL returns, we look at vital games for Leicester City at the bottom of the table and Manchester United in their battle for European football next season. Plus, it’s a huge weekend for Arsenal who meet European giants Lyon again in the semi-finals of the UWCL. Can they secure a first-leg advantage at the Emirates this year?TIMECODES: 00:07 - Ellen, Jen and Ben are back together. 02:50 - The Lionesses are four wins from four in World Cup qualifying. 06:20 - Praise for Lotte Wubben-Moy. 09:50 - Hannah Hampton ’saves’ England on multiple occasions. 13:24 - Alessia Russo takes her club form to the international stage. 17:15 - Scotland remain top of Group B4 after two draws against Belgium. 21:00 - Kathleen McGovern looking at home on the international stage. 24:40 - The WSL returns after the international break. 30:58 - The penultimate round of WSL 2 fixtures. 33:10 - Arsenal meet Lyon again in the Champions League semi-finals. 38:54 - Stina Blackstenius signs a new contract with Arsenal. 40:53 - Barcelona meet Bayern Munich in the other semi-final.

Ben Haines is joined by former England forward Fran Kirby and BBC commentator Vicki Sparks at Wembley stadium as the Lionesses claimed a significant 1-0 victory over rivals Spain and took control of their 2027 Women's World Cup qualifying group.Fran and Vicki react to the latest instalment of this growing rivalry which ended with England securing a crucial three points. It was a resilient performance from a new centre-back partnership and a milestone night for midfielder Keira Walsh, who captained the side on her 100th appearance. The team also hear from goalscorer Lauren Hemp, England's latest centurion Keira Walsh and manager Sarina Wiegman who all give their post match thoughts to Katie Smith in the tunnel.TIMECODES: 00:05 - Ben Haines is joined by Fran Kirby and Vicki Sparks at Wembley 11:20 - Lauren Hemp interview. 16:19 - Reaction from England’s latest centurion, Keira Walsh. 23:49 - Sarina Wiegman interview. 32:50 - Looking ahead to their next fixture against Iceland on Saturday. 36:00 - More reflection on Keira Walsh’s milestone from Leah Williamson and Mary Earps.

Ben Haines and Em Sanders are back at St. George’s Park and this time they have agent Ellen White with them to look ahead to the biggest game of their World Cup qualifying game so far.England manager Sarina Wiegman joins Ellen and Ben to discuss facing Spain, again! As the Lionesses approach their milestone 500th game, we ask what game stands out to her, chat Alessia Russo’s form and what she wants to see from the new faces in the squad. Ellen and Ben also chat to one of those new faces in Bay FC’s Keira Barry alongside in-form Arsenal striker Alessia Russo. They discuss turning up to camp for the first time, coming into this international break at very different points in their domestic seasons and which England teammate they would take on Race Across the World with!Plus, the team chat team selection for this 'crunch game' on Tuesday at Wembley. Full commentary of England v Spain will be on 5 Sports Extra and BBC Sounds, kick off is at 7pm.TIMECODES: 00:05 - Ellen, Ben and Em are down at St. George’s Park. 02:54 - England boss Sarina Wiegman joins the pod. 18:20 - Ellen, Ben and Em reflect on Sarina’s interview and chat team selection against Spain.. 24:50 - Alessia Russo and Keira Barry join the pod. 44:10 - The team chat Keira’s calmness, Alessia’s current form and the importance of this game at Wembley.

Ben Haines and Ellen White are joined by Em Sanders at St. George's Park for a mini debrief episode after a busy week of Champions League and FA Cup quarter-final action.From three English teams down to one, Arsenal are the last ones standing in Europe with Chelsea and Manchester United losing out in at the quarter-final stage. Em and Ellen react to Sonia Bompastor's post-match interview and Manchester United's debut season in the competition. Plus, Brighton are through to the Women's FA Cup semi-finals after upsetting 14-time winners Arsenal at Meadow Park. The team react to a huge oppourtinty for Brighton or Liverpool to reach Wembley and another heavyweight clash for Chelsea and Manchester City.

Jen Beattie gets to know Scotland head coach Melissa Andreatta who was appointed a year ago. Mel talks about her coaching journey in Australia, her style and ambitions of getting Scotland back to a major tournament. Scotland have World Cup qualifiers coming up against Belgium followed by Israel in June with the prospect of play-offs later this year.Mel also talks about the progress of player pathways in Scotland. Plus...has Mel tried Irn-Bru yet?

Emma Sanders takes an in depth look at the race for promotion to the WSL and those clubs in among it. Birmingham City sit top with head coach Amy Merricks telling Emma the club is ready to be back in the top flight. Charlton sit second with a very impressive season led by Karen Hills. Danish striker Amalie Thestrup gives an insight into how important culture is at the club and one of the reasons for their success.Newcastle have an outside chance of getting into the play-off spots and we hear from boss Tanya Oxtoby about the clubs ambitions. Bristol City have dropped out of that play-off race but interim CEO Lowri Roberts shares the clubs longer term plan to get back into the WSL. Plus head coach Charlotte Healy talks about all the changes since she was appointed last summer.Timecodes: 00:30 Birmingham City with Amy Merricks 10:00 Charlton Karen Hills 17:30 Amalie Thestrup 23:45 Newcastle Tanya Oxtoby 27:00 Bristol City Lowri Roberts 32:00 Charlotte Healy

Ben Haines, Ellen White and Emma Sanders react to Sarina Wiegman's latest England squad ahead of World Cup qualifiers against Spain and Iceland. 17 year old Erica Meg Parkinson, who plays club football in Portugal gets a first senior call up having come through the youth system. Emma gives her insight into who Erica is and her background. Where do Chelsea need to be better against Arsenal in the second leg of the Champions League quarter final and can Manchester United comeback against Bayern Munich away from home? Plus Ellen has found her calling in walking football!Timecodes: 02:30 Ellen trys walking football!  04:30 Who is Erica Meg Parkinson? 09:20 Sarina Wiegman  21:00 Champions League 28:25 Kim Little fan club  34:30 Jule Brand & Ingrid Engen  37:00 WSLCommentaries: Wednesday 1st April – 8pm – Champions League Quarter-Finals - Chelsea v Arsenal, 5 Live Sport Sunday 5th April – 1pm – FA Cup Quarter Finals – Arsenal v Brighton, 5 Live Sport

Ahead of a huge Champions League quarter-final second leg against Manchester United, Ben has travelled to FC Bayern Campus to catch up with two FC Bayern Frauen stars who will be very familiar names, and voices, to WSL fans!Swedish defender Magdalena Eriksson chats to Ben about why Munich felt like home very quickly, her Champions League ambitions with the club and as the former Chelsea captain, what she thinks of Manchester City edging closer to their first WSL title in a decade.And Danish forward Pernille Harder, fresh from scoring twice in the first leg at Old Trafford, joins Ben to discuss growing up as a Manchester United fan, finding a club that fits both her and Madga as a pair and team bonding trips to Jovana Damnjanović’s coffee shop!01:30 - Magdalena Eriksson interview. 22:35 - Pernille Harder interview.

Everton and Netherlands striker Katja Snoeijs has opened up to BBC Sport's Emma Middleton about her endometriosis diagnosis. Katja was diagnosed at the end of last year and decided to talk publicly which also ties in with March being Endometriosis Awareness Month.Katja explains how her diagnosis came about and how she pushed through the pain as a professional athlete.

Ben Haines, Ellen White and Jen Beattie discuss the Champions League quarter-finals with Arsenal and Chelsea coming up against each other in Europe for the very first time. Ellen goes into why it's so important to go into the second leg ahead and why the first may be a cagey affair. Jen and Ellen discuss Alessia Russo's best position and why Jen thinks Renee Slegers is so good at managing her squad. Manchester United face a tough side in Bayern Munich who are unbeaten in the league this season, plus United have the Manchester derby to manage in between the two legs. Ellen and Jen give their opinion after it was announced every team in FIFA's women's football tournaments must include at least one female head coach or assistant coach. Will the support and funding be in place for female coaches to get their coaching qualifications?Timecodes: 02:00 Players getting ill 04:30 Arsenal v Chelsea  09:30 Importance of first leg  11:35 Russo position & Blackstenious  18:25 Can United cause an upset against Bayern?  24:30 New FIFA rule on female coaches  30:00 What support is needed? 35:20 Manchester derbyCommentaries: Tuesday 24th March: Champions League Arsenal v Chelsea on 5 Live, KO 2000 Saturday 28th March: WSL Manchester United v Manchester City on 5 Live, KO 13:30 Saturday 28th March: WSL Arsenal v Spurs on Sports Extra, KO 17:30 Sunday 29th March: WSL Chelsea v Aston Villa on 5 Live, KO 1200

Ellen White is down at Belvoir Drive, the home of Leicester City Women, for a special edition of the podcast ahead of a crucial end of season run-in for the club.Ellen is reunited with her old gaffer, Rick Passmoor, to chat 'unfinished business' in the WSL and how he hopes the experience of his five January signings can help the club on and off the pitch as they battle to avoid the bottom spot come the end of the season.Plus, Ellen sits down with Alisha Lehmann, one of the most recognisable and widely followed figures in women's football, to discuss the misconceptions around her, why she was so keen on a move back to the WSL and reflect on the impact last summer's Euros is starting to have in Switzerland.

BBC Sports Katie Gornall has done a deep dive into how Newcastle United are plotting a course to the WSL as they push for a play-off place.Katie has been catching with Newcastle midfielder Jordan Nobbs, manager Tanya Oxtoby, director of women's football Grace Williams and former player Rachel Furness. Grace and Tanya share the ambitions of the club and what has changed since the takeover as they target promotion. Jordan and Rachel reflect on whats changed in the game and how exciting the prospect of seeing Newcastle in the top flight would be.Also, why does Jordan Nobbs keeping taking Tanya's shoes?TIMECODES: 01:23 - Rachel Furness 12:54 - Tanya Oxtoby 24:39 - Jordan Nobbs 34:25 - Grace Williams

Ben Haines, Ellen White and Jen Beattie talk how Chelsea are able to dominate in the big matches as they claim another League Cup victory over Manchester United. Why are Manchester United not able to match Chelsea on the big occasions and what did Marc Skinner mean by 'rubbish goals'? Jen and Ellen talk strikers with Beata Olsson scoring her sixth WSL goal of the season for Liverpool. And some big news from Chelsea as Cat Macario looks to be on the move to NWSL side San Diego Wave on a reportedly record contract deal. The team talk about the money in the women's game and the new 'high impact player' rule in the NWSL. Plus what has Guro Reiten's impact been as she leaves Chelsea after six years. Timecodes: 03:00 Typical Chelsea!   08:00 What or who was the difference maker? 14:30 Where it leaves Manchester United? 18:35 What's been the change for Liverpool? 25:25 Striker stats & debate 28:30 Cat Macario to San Diego Wave?  34:00 Guro Reiten leaving Chelsea for Gotham FCLive coverage in the WSL Manchester City v Tottenham Hotspur, 12 o’clock kick off on Saturday 21st on Sports Extra.

In a candid and important conversation, Lioness legend Ellen White sits down with Manchester United’s Celin Bizet Dønnum to discuss motherhood in women's football. From considering the right time to start a family, navigating training while pregnant and her plans to return to training after birth, Celin shares her story proving that you can ‘live out two dreams at the same time’.TIMECODES: 00:45 - How is Celin feeling at the moment? 01:40 - Was starting a family whilst playing always part of Celin’s plan and taking inspiration from Hannah Blundell. 03:51 - The support Celin has had from Manchester United? 08:20 - Celin and Aron’s ‘normal’ as two professional footballers. 09:30 - Who did Celin tell first about her pregnancy? 11:25 - What are Celin’s plans when it comes to returning to play? 12:48 - Learning about pelvic floor health and changes to her body. 16:30 - Breaking stigmas around being a young Mum in her ‘peak years’. 19:45 - What is the maternity leave policy in women's football? 22:50 - How did her teammates react to her baby news? 25:40 - Celin asks Ellen about her motherhood journey. 28:45 - What is Celin most excited about once her little one arrives?

In the second of two special episodes ahead of the Women's League Cup final, Emma Sanders visits Carrington and chats to a trio of Manchester United guests to preview the first domestic final of the season.Head coach Marc Skinner reflects on making their fourth consecutive domestic final, making 'ruthless' decisions and making sure his team don't fear Chelsea.One of Manchester United's newest signings, German forward Lea Schüller chats to Em about how she's settling in, her biggest strengths and why she's 'not that into football' when she's not playing.Plus, USA goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce talks wanting to make more history with this team and with the final being on Mother's Day, why her Mum will always be her number one fan!TIMECODES: 00:05 - Em and Ben are back for the second part of our League Cup final preview. 01:57 - Marc Skinner sits down with Em. 15:45 - Lea Schüller tells Em about settling into life on and off the pitch in Manchester. 27:30 - Phallon Tullis-Joyce on new 'puzzle pieces' and her idea of the perfect final.

Ben Haines, Ellen White and Jen Beattie reflect on the first international break of the year where England and Scotland made it two wins out of two in their 2027 World Cup qualifying campaigns.The team discuss England's standout performers against Iceland including Lucy Bronze who marked her 145th senior appearance with another superb display. Plus, with Lauren James looking back to her best, we ask how the Lionesses can get the best out of her on a more consistent basis? The WSL returns this weekend after a month-long break with a 'must not lose' game for bottom of the table sides Liverpool and Leicester City. And the first piece of domestic silverware is up for grabs, so who are Ellen and Jen backing to lift the League Cup on Sunday?TIMECODES: 01:12 - Jen is buzzing from Scotland’s Six Nations win! 03:03 - Lauren James starred during England’s 2-0 win over Iceland. 09:30 - Lucy Bronze proves she’s still gold standard on her 145th cap. 14: 00 - Georgia Stanway impresses again. 16:10 - Scotland put seven past Luxembourg. 22:00 - The WSL returns with a huge fixture at the foot of the table. 27:35 - Do players keep an eye on their club teammates fitness whilst on international breaks? 30:00 - League Cup final preview as reigning champions Chelsea take on Manchester United.

In the first of two special episodes ahead of the Women's League Cup final on Sunday 15th March, Ben Haines is back down in Cobham and joined by the ultimate Chelsea trio to preview the first domestic final of the season.Chelsea and England midfielder Keira Walsh reflects on her first full year at the club, how special this trophy is to her and becoming more of a leader for both club and country.Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor reflects on reaching yet another domestic final, her new contract with the club and with the final being on Mother's Day, how being a Mum herself has helped her as a coach.USA forward Alyssa Thompson looks ahead to her first final with Chelsea and the possibility winning her first piece of domestic silverware. Plus Em Sanders drops by to discuss what has to go right for Chelsea against Manchester United if they are to lift the league cup again.TIMECODES: 02:15 - Keira Walsh sits down with Ben. 17:30 - Sonia Bompastor joins the pod. 33:00 - Alyssa Thompson on the prospect of winning her first domestic trophy. 38:00 - Em and Ben discuss what has to go right for Chelsea to lift the league cup again.

Ben Haines, Ellen White and Soccer Aid's newest recruit, Jen Beattie are back together to look back on games which saw England and Scotland get their 2027 Women's World Cup qualifying campaign off to flying starts.The team focus on the performances of England's goalscorers, Alessia Russo, Georgia Stanway and Jess Park and ask whether a more experimental back line was tested enough against Ukraine. Captain Caroline Weir scored her first international hat-trick as Scotland hit five without reply against Luxembourg. Jen discusses how the side are finding their freedom again.Plus, ahead of International Women's Day, the pod give a huge shoutout to Jen O'Neill, their unsung hero of the women's game.TIMECODES: 00:15 - Jen is Soccer Aid’s newest recruit! 04:18 - England goalscorer focus against Ukraine, starting with Jess Park. 06:55 - Georgia Stanway showing why she’s in demand this summer. 12:00 - Alessia Russo is a ‘world-class’ number 9. 16:33 - A more experimental back four for England. 21:17 - What changes could we see against Iceland on Saturday? 24:20 - Scotland hit the ground running against Luxembourg. 29:00 - Scotland are finding their freedom again. 31:25 - Is Kirsty Hanson the most underrated player in the WSL? 33:22 - We name our Women’s Football Weekly unsung hero ahead of International Women’s Day.

In this week’s edition of the Football Interview, first broadcast on the Football Daily podcast, Kelly Somers speaks to England captain Leah Williamson. They discuss her early memories of getting into football, the impact her family have had on her, and how she nearly dropped out of the Arsenal academy at the age of 15. She relives captaining England to back-to-back European titles and reveals to Kelly the one thing that's missing that would complete her career.TIMECODES: 0’40 - First memories of football and not being very good. 2’20 - How she nearly dropped out of the academy at Arsenal at 15. 3’50 - Has there been a turning point? 4’55 - What match from her career would she relive? 6’00 - Did she realise what she’d done [winning Euro 2022]? 7’42 - How has it changed her life? 8’09 - The fuel to do win it again in 2025. 8’40 - What was she like growing up and her family dynamic. 10’26 - How she escapes from football and love of fashion. 12’53 - What else does she want to achieve?

Ben Haines and Em Sanders are back at St. George's Park as the Lionesses get ready to start their journey to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.Ben and Em look ahead to the first fixtures of England's qualifying campaign against Ukraine and Iceland early next month and the squad are boosted by the return of captain Leah Williamson who is back in the squad for the first time since Euro 2025.Leah joins Ben for a quick chat to discuss being back with the squad and what, or more specifically who, she missed while she was away recovering from her knee injury.Ben is joined by another member of the squad, Manchester City's Lauren Hemp, who discusses bringing her good form and confidence from club to country, enjoying her football again and what she's packed for an extended time away on camp.Plus, Ben and Em ask what Jess Park's best position is in this side given her current form and discuss the key positions in the back and forward lines that could be up for grabs over the next few weeks.TIMECODES: 00:03 - Ben Haines and Em Sanders are back at St. George's Park for the start of the 2027 World Cup cycle. 05:10 - England captain Leah Williamson joins Ben. 09:00 - How could England's defence line up over these two qualifiers? 12:05 - Lauren Hemp's brilliant form this season. 14:25 - England and Manchester City forward Lauren Hemp joins Ben. 29:22 - Ben and Em react to Lauren's interview. 32:20 - What are the key positions in the forward line that could be up for grabs?

Ellen White and Jen Beattie kick off the countdown to the 2027 FIFA World Cup by speaking to vice-captain Erin Cuthbert ahead of Scotland's first qualifying match. We also hear from Wales head coach Rhian Wilkinson as she juggles parenthood and the campaign to make it back-to-back major tournaments for Wales. Elsewhere on the international scene, the Asian Cup gets underway on the 1st of March. Which WSL teams will be most impacted by players leaving to compete there?Plus, there's reaction to a mixed week for Manchester United who have qualified for their first Champions League quarter final but lost again to 'bogey team' Chelsea in the FA Cup. TIMECODES: 3'25 Why can't Manchester United overcome Chelsea? 14'45 Champions League chat 20'16 Real Madrid being the only team not to host their quarter-final leg at their 'main' stadium 22'58 Rhian Wilkinson 28'00 Jess Fishlock returns to Wales 30'04 What impact will the Asian Cup have on the WSL? 33'36 Erin Cuthbert interview

Ben Haines, Ellen White and Jen Beattie react to the latest Lionesses squad announcement as captain Leah Williamson returns for the first time since Euro 2025. Emma Sanders sits down with England manager Sarina Wiegman and the team discuss managing minutes and whether it's time for England to have a recognised left-back with Poppy Pattinson's inclusion in the squad.With a month-long break from the WSL ahead of us, Ben, Ellen and Jen deep dive into how much Manchester City's domestic dominance could be down to the fact they are not in the Champions League this season.The team also look ahead to the second leg of the UWCL play-offs, the fifth round of the FA Cup and chaos ensues as we uncover what sports Jen and Ellen would want to take part in at the Winter Olympics!TIMECODES: 00:30 - What Winter Olympic sport would Ellen and Jen compete in? 06:20 - Lionesses squad announced as they begin their 2027 Women's World Cup qualifying campaign. 11:40 - Poppy Pattinson’s call up and the need for a recognised left-back. 14:35 - Em Sanders chats to England manager Sarina Wiegman. 20:15 - Managing player minutes this international break. 23:30 - Scotland name their squad for a Luxembourg double-header. 27:40 - How much has Man City’s season without Europe contributed to their WSL dominance? 38:50 - Brighton v Arsenal postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. 41:00 - Ellen on the month long break in the WSL and how that could impact teams. 46:10 - Look ahead to the Champions League play-off round second legs. 47:50 - FA Cup fifth round preview.

Alex Scott meets Olivia Smith for a girl dinner to Eat & Yap about Canada, her Jamaican and Peruvian heritage and life at Arsenal.Together, they try Olivia's favourite Canadian and Jamaican food whilst talking about her upbringing, life on and off the pitch since moving to north London this summer and getting football tips from her little sister!You can watch the new Eat & Yap series with Alex Scott on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport YouTube channel now.

Ben Haines, Ellen White, Jen Beattie reflect on the weekends WSL action as the race for Europe gets tighter, the battle to stay off the bottom gets tougher and there are new contracts and departures at Chelsea.The team reflect on wins for Liverpool, West Ham and Everton as Leicester City suddenly find themselves at the foot of the table.Some big results at the other end of the table too as the fight for a top three spot and a Champions League football gets tighter and tighter between Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea.Jen reacts to the news Caroline Weir has been named Scotland captain on an official basis, plus the pod reacts to Paul Green leaving his role as Chelsea's head of women's football after 13 years.TIMECODES: 00:10 - Madonna spotted at Spurs vs Chelsea! 03:30 - Liverpool are off the bottom of the table for the first time since November. 07:40 - West Ham stun Brighton with three late goals 12:15 -  Leicester suffer their ninth loss in 14 league games 14:44 - Everton part ways with Brian Sorensen 17:55 - Praise for Courtney Brosnan 21:15 - Arsenal end Manchester City’s 13-game winning run 22:25 - Lotte Wubben-Moy vs Bunny Shaw 27:40 - Chelsea get back to winning ways against Tottenham 30:20 - New contract for Sonia Bompastor and Paul Green leaves Chelsea 34:40 - Caroline Weir announced as new Scotland captain 38:30 - Looking ahead to this week's UWCL knock out play-offs.

Five months on from spending the day with some of the London City Lionesses squad back in August, Ben Haines is back at Cobdown Park to catch up with a superstar trio after the WSL mid-season break.Danielle van de Donk is back on the pod shortly after making her debut for the side to talk about her recovery, going through rehab when your a new member of a team and reveals whether she's been taking part in the squad's Spanish lessons!New signing, France forward Delphine Cascarino, chats to Ben about joining the WSL, her ambitions with the club and how she's settled into London life so far.Plus, Freya Godfrey joins Ben, fresh from scoring her fourth WSL goal of the season, to talk being 'more selfish' on the pitch, her first England camp and her love of jigsaw puzzles!

Ben Haines, Ellen White, Jen Beattie and special guest Karen Bardsley reflect on the weekend that may well have sealed the title for City as they beat holders Chelsea 5-1 to put them 11 points clear. KB gives an insight into behind the scenes at City and manager Jeglertz style and why City are now the team to fear. Has Sonia Bompastor got her tactics wrong with the fight for those Champions League spots very much on. The transfer window closes today with the likes of Georgia Stanway and Ona Batlle potentially on the move to Arsenal in the summer. Could Katie McCabe be leaving the club? Plus more history for Arsenal as they win the Champions Cup with Jen representing the Kim Little fan club from across the pond!Timecodes: 01:00 Welcome back KB! 04:00 Chelsea defending 09:30 Lauren Hemp 13:35 City the team to fear 25:25 Transfer window 27:30 Ona Batlle to Arsenal? 29:30 Katie McCabe to leave? 30:40 Champions Cup Commentary of Arsenal v Manchester City in the WSL, Sunday 8 Feb 1200 KO, Sports Extra 2

Ben Haines catches up with Aston Villa captain Rachel Daly after the mid-season break to talk wedding planning, finding her form in her more 'natural position' and the type of captain she is, both on and off the pitch.Ben and Rachel also discuss the rise of Lucia Kendall, how good it is to Ellie Roebuck back on the pitch and the kind of role Rachel will have whilst she's temporarily sidelined with an injury.

Emma Sanders is at the Chelsea training ground chatting to pod regular Chelsea and England defender Lucy Bronze! Lucy talks about chasing the WSL title, her future and who would make the best traitors and faithfuls!

England defender Jess Carter speaks to BBC Sport's Laura Scott about how receiving racist messages online during Euro 2025 left her not wanting to leave the hotel.Jess also talks about playing for Gotham FC compared to England and competing in the Champions Cup.This interview discusses experiences of racial abuse. If you or someone you know is in need of help, you can find links to organisations who can provide help and support at www.bbc.co.uk/actionline.

Head of safety, sustainability & infrastructure for the WSL Hannah Buckley joins Ben Haines to discuss how stadiums need to be better equipped for female players and supporters.WSL Football has unveiled what it says are "world-first design guidelines" for updating existing stadiums - or building new ones - so they better cater for women, at a time when the women's game is growing.

It’s an Ellen White and Jen Beattie takeover as they interview Wales legend and most capped player Jess Fishlock after she announced her international retirement. Jess talks about her decision to retire, her legacy with Wales, scoring at the Euros and what next for her as she continues her club football in Seattle. Scotland and Crystal Palace forward Kirsty Howat drops by the pod ahead of their friendlies against Morocco and Switzerland. Kirsty talks her recent move to Palace and how she is finding WSL 2 and her own ambitions with Scotland. Plus the BBC has announced the nominees for Women’s Footballer of the year award.Timecodes: 02:00 Jess Fishlock! 04:30 Wales future 10:05 What next for Jess 17:40 Kirsty Howat 20:00 Life at Palace 25:30 Scotland ambitions 30:30 BBC Women’s Football of the year nomineesSat 25 Oct 1730, England v Brazil on 5 Sports Extra

Manchester City's Kerstin Casparij talks to Ben Haines about how Manchester is now her home, the Euros and her famous instagram captions! Plus why she wears such small shin pads!

Ben Haines, Ellen White and Jen Beattie remember the former Liverpool manager Matt Beard who has died at the age of 47. Natasha Dowie who played under Beard with Liverpool, Charlton Athletic and Boston Breakers tells us about ‘Beardy’ and her experiences with him which started at the age of 17 when she joined Charlton Athletic. Tash followed Matt to Boston Breakers and Liverpool where she finished her career and talks to us about how she always wanted to make him proud. Senior Women’s football reporter Emma Sanders joins the podcast who got to know Matt while at university and their friendship off the pitch over the years, including pints at the pub! Former German international Julia Simic who played under Beard at West Ham tells us she went there because of Matt Beard and how he has heavily impacted her as a coach now.If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this episode, information and support can be found at the BBC's Action Line. https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline

After playing a starring role in Switzerland, Chelsea and England defender Lucy Bronze catches up with Ben Haines for a special edition of the podcast.Lucy gives us an injury update after winning her second European Championship title with the Lionesses, all while playing with a fractured tibia, and she discusses receiving a record-equalling fifth nomination for the Ballon d’Or Féminin.Ben and Lucy also chat resilience, becoming more comfortable with the media and what her dream day off looks like. Plus, Ben has a little gift for Lucy in recognition of her fifth appearance on the pod!

Ahead of the 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony on Monday 22nd September, Emma Sanders, BBC Sport's Women’s football news reporter, sits down with two of Arsenal's nominees for the main prize.England striker Alessia Russo discusses another unforgettable summer with the Lionesses, fan expectation of more silverware after success in the Women's Champions League last season and her desire to develop as a striker. Australian defender Steph Catley talks about her summer break, making the Emirates their fortress and striving for more consistency in domestic competitions.Live commentary of Arsenal's next Women's Super League fixture, away to Manchester United on Sunday 21st September, will be on Sports Extra 3. Just scroll through the live radio dial at the top of BBC Sounds and tap on Sports Extra 3, or just ask your smart speaker to ‘play Sports Extra 3'.

Ben Haines is at Cobdown Park, the home London City Lionesses, as they look ahead to their first season in the WSL as the league's only side to not have an affiliated men's team.Ben sits down with Nikita Parris, Danielle van de Donk, Kosovare Asllani, Jocelyn Prêcheur and Jana Fernández. Jana opens up about the emotions of leaving Barcelona and her admiration for the WSL, Jocelyn talks his relationship with owner Michelle Kang and her ambitions for the club, Danielle and Nikita tell Ben all about their decision to join the team and what excites them about this new challenge, plus Asllani reveals why she's glad she trusted her gut and the challenges of building a fanbase as an independent team.TIMECODES: 00:47 - Nikita Parris 08:57 - Jana Fernández 19:43 - Kosovare Asllani 30:06 - Danielle van de Donk 35:13 - Jocelyn Prêcheur

Ben Haines goes inside the Manchester City and Chelsea camps to catch up with Sonia Bompastor, Naomi Girma, Ellie Carpenter, Bunny Shaw, Lauren Hemp and Vivianne Miedema ahead of the start of a new WSL season.As well as looking ahead to the opening game of the season at Stamford Bridge, Ben talks Taylor Swift with Viv, life at Chelsea with Ellie and Naomi, the golden boot with Bunny and Euros glory with Lauren!Plus, Sonia is aiming high again this season!TIMECODES: 00:55 - Naomi Girma 08:52 - Ellie Carpenter 17:40 - Sonia Bompastor 27:58 - Lauren Hemp 36:30 - Bunny Shaw 42:41 - Vivianne Miedema

A chance to hear the best bits from some of the Lionesses ahead of England's World Cup final against Spain.Midfield duo and besties Keira Walsh and Georgia Stanway reveal how they're getting on learning the language at their new clubs. There's also a cameo from captain Leah Williamson who crashes the pod with a caterpillar cake!Legend Lucy Bronze tells us about her winning mentality and goalscorer Lauren Hemp reveals other sports she very nearly went into.

Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman is the final guest on Jill Scott’s Coffee Club.Hear a side to her that you’ve never heard before including insight into what happened that night at the Euros, how she’s adapted to English culture and what grinds her gears?Who does she liken herself to as a player in the England squad and how has yoga helped her keep calm since becoming a manager?

Why does Jill Scott keep a diary?Jill and Ben Haines answer your questions including who will be the mum of the Lionesses in Australia?Who would Jill pick as her bridesmaids from the England squad?And England captain Leah Williamson asks Jill to pick who she'd rather be stranded on a desert island with between her and her besties, Keira Walsh and Georgia Stanway.

It's a special episode for the listeners as Jill Scott answers YOUR questions!Who has the worst habits in the England squad? Who would she rather be for a day, Lauren Hemp or Lauren James? And would she rather give up coffee or football?There's also a special surprise for Jill as her biggest inspiration, Dame Kelly Holmes pops by to talk tattoos, park runs and the power of the Lionesses.

What haircut did Kieran Trippier have when he was younger?The England and Newcastle defender joins Jill and Ben to talk about what it's like playing in the North East and how much the Champions League means to the club.Kieran also speaks about the current competition for right-back in the England squad and what it's like being a captain.And his fellow Newcastle teammate, Callum Wilson, gatecrashes the pod and claims he'd win I'm A Celebrity over Trippier.

England and Everton men's number one, Jordan Pickford, joins Jill Scott's Coffee Club.As fellow Mackems, Jill and Jordan bond over their love of Sunderland, house music, and roundabouts.He reveals his secrets behind his "game management" and who is the best at golf in the England team.