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The English squad will commence their Euro 2028 journey at the Etihad Stadium, on the condition that they achieve the expected qualification for a tournament taking place in most of the United Kingdom and the Irish Republic.

City’s stadium has not hosted an English men’s match since the spring of 2016, when Turkey were overcome 2-1 in a exhibition match, but is almost certain to host the Three Lions for their opening fixture on Saturday 10 June 2028.

England are scheduled to play their last two group stage games at Wembley, but, should they win Group B, their last-16 tie would occur at St James’ Park. Placing second would mean beginning the knockouts at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Championship Opening and Demonstration

The event was inaugurated at an event in a London landmark on the previous evening. High-ranking officials from European football’s governing body and the organizing bodies were confronted as they approached the site by about 50 protesters, who called for Israel to be kicked out from international football because of the conflict in Gaza.

Placards were displayed with slogans saying “Show Israel the red card” and “You are complicit”, while activists called out: “Kick Israel out.”

Event Fixture List

The opening game of the tournament will be held at the the national stadium of Wales in Cardiff, on June 9, 2028, a fixture that will include the Dragons if they secure a place.

The national stadium will host the penultimate rounds and the final, which will be staged on July 9, 2028 with a kick-off time at 5pm.

It is anticipated that an earlier kick-off, which will also be implemented for UEFA Champions League finals from the upcoming season, will cater to families and help connect with a more diverse set of audiences.

Qualifying Teams

The Irish team are scheduled to play their opening match at the Dublin stadium and Scotland would play similarly at Hampden Park.

The national sides of all four hosts will take part in the preliminary stage; two reserved places will be held in reserve for any that fail to qualify for the finals through that route.

Locations and Playoffs

Aston Villa’s stadium and The North London arena complete the nine tournament locations. Each one will hold at least one elimination game, with the last eight staged at each country’s national stadium.

The qualification draw will be staged in the Northern Irish capital, which was removed as a tournament location last year when it became clear the Belfast stadium could not be renovated in time, on 6 December 2026.

Official Statement

“The event will be a competition for the fans and a showcase of everything we cherish about the game – its fervor and power to unite individuals.”

In excess of three million passes, a all-time high for a Euro tournament, are expected to be offered to fans.