Lydia Bedford: 'We’re really excited by the challenge'

Lydia Bedford reacted to the 2026 FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup draw as England learned who they will face at this year’s tournament.

The Young Lionesses were placed into Group B, along with Brazil, Tanzania and Canada at today’s draw, which took place live from the EC1 Cultural Center in Łódź, Poland – one of the tournament’s host ciites.

“The draw was a great occasion and FIFA put on a fantastic event,” said Bedford. “With 24 top teams involved, we always knew there were going to be some tough games, whoever we drew, but we’re really excited by the challenge ahead and for the players to experience playing against Brazil, Tanzania and Canada.”

England kick off their tournament on Saturday 5 September with their opening game against Canada.

Bedford’s side then play Tanzania on Tuesday 8 September before rounding off the group stage by going head-to-head with Brazil on Friday 11 September.

“We play Canada in one of our preparation games in June, so I’m sure that will add even more interest and excitement around that fixture,” she explained.

“Tanzania will provide a different challenge and a valuable cultural experience for the players, while Brazil obviously has such a rich history in the game.

“Each team will bring something different. Brazil have that flair and a possession-based style of play, while Canada have some excellent young talent coming through the system, both at college level and in the NSL. We’ll learn more when we face them in June, but we’re expecting highly competitive games that should suit our style as a group.”

Preparations have already begun for the tournament, with the Young Lionesses meeting up earlier this year for a trip to Spain.

“I don’t think the preparation changes now we know the draw, but it does give everyone a clearer focus and understanding of what we’re building towards,” continued Bedford. “We now know the route through the group and can begin planning in more detail.

“We have a really talented squad to choose from and the priority over the coming months is helping the group develop its connection and flow, so we can bring the best version of ourselves to the tournament.

“Ultimately, we want the players to step onto that stage in September ready to perform and showcase what it means to play in an England shirt.”

And Bedford – who led England women’s under-23s to the U23 European Competition title in April – is looking forward to September.

“Our visit to Poland has been brilliant so far,” said Bedford. “Jess [Bird, team manager] and I have had the chance to explore a little, and everyone here has been incredibly welcoming and helpful. You can really see the effort that’s gone into preparing for the tournament and the facilities and stadiums look fantastic.

“There’s a real sense of excitement building now. Today has definitely increased that anticipation and, while we’d love the tournament to start tomorrow, we know we’ve got some really important camps and preparation opportunities across the summer first.

“I’m incredibly excited to lead this group into a major tournament. We’ve got great strength and depth within the squad, and my job is to help give the players the confidence and freedom to express themselves. Hopefully, come September, we can deliver performances that everybody is proud of.”