The moment that England has been waiting for has finally arrived – their Lionesses are in the Women’s World Cup final, marking the nation’s first appearance in such a prestigious match since 1966. The hopes of an entire country are now firmly placed on the shoulders of these fierce athletes who have battled their way to this remarkable milestone.
However, Spain’s La Furia Roja stands as a formidable obstacle, also entering their maiden women’s final, setting the stage for an unforgettable clash on the field.
A Transcontinental Duel in Australia and New Zealand
In a tournament jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand, the grand finale is scheduled to commence at 11 AM UK time on Sunday. For those situated in Sydney’s Stadium Australia, this equates to 8 PM local time, as the Women’s World Cup culmination ignites excitement worldwide.
Cheering from Afar: Where to Catch the Action
If crossing thousands of miles to witness the showdown in person isn’t feasible, worry not – numerous venues across England are ready to transform into fan zones brimming with national pride and football fervor.
The match will also air on FOX and the FOX Sports app at 6 a.m. ET on Sunday, with coverage beginning at 5 a.m.
London: A Hub of Excitement
London, a city renowned for its sporting enthusiasm, will come alive with more than 13 million expected to tune in either via television or grand screens. A particularly electrifying ambiance awaits at Victoria Park, hosting a colossal “super screening” capable of accommodating over 12,000 avid supporters. Sadiq Khan, London’s Mayor, anticipates an electric atmosphere and encourages thousands to gather and roar their support for the team.
However, this year, Wembley Stadium and Trafalgar Square will not be the arenas for this thrilling event.
From Boxpark to Vinegar Yard
The capital city’s Boxpark locations in Wembley and Croydon are already sold out, though an opportunity exists to join the waitlist for Shoreditch. Canary Wharf’s Canada Square Park, the commercial heart, will embrace the World Cup frenzy with a large screen. Similarly, Vinegar Yard near London Bridge will also join in the festivities.
Nationwide Celebrations
Beyond London’s vibrant settings, cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Newcastle are gearing up for a celebratory Sunday. Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester will host thousands in front of big screens, complete with pre-match coverage and adjacent bars. Birmingham’s Bierkeller guarantees a football hotspot with an impressive superscreen, supplemented by over 20 screens and two projectors.
Meanwhile, Newcastle’s NX fan zone promises a “phenomenal mega screening,” fostering a lively family-oriented atmosphere.
United in Celebration
Across the UK, numerous hubs sporting multiple large screens have been set up in cities such as Sheffield, Nottingham, and Bristol. In Jersey’s al fresco fan zone in St Helier, massive LED screens will amplify the excitement.
Even churches are making room for the occasion. The Church of England’s approval for shifting Sunday services means St Mary’s Church in Surrey plans to provide “bacon rolls and fizz” post its main morning eucharist.
Anticipation in the Air: Pre-Match Pint
As the nation eagerly awaits the historic match, pubs are preparing to open, albeit varying in timing based on individual licenses for alcohol sales.
Celebrating Victory: A Matter of Time
Despite widespread calls for an additional bank holiday in celebration of a sporting achievement, no such provision exists. A government spokesperson emphasized that the nation’s focus should currently be on the final. As England manager Sarina Wiegman emphasized, the country stands united in support of the Lionesses this pivotal weekend.
FAQs
Q1: Where is the Women’s World Cup 2023 final?
The inaugural match took place on July 20, 2023, at Eden Park in Auckland, where New Zealand faced off against Norway. As for the ultimate showdown, the championship match is scheduled for August 20, 2023, featuring Spain and England, set to unfold at Stadium Australia in Sydney.
Q2: Where can I watch the World Cup final?
The final match of the Women’s World Cup 2023 will air on FOX and the FOX Sports app at 6 a.m. ET on Sunday, with coverage beginning at 5 a.m.