The Early Years and Initial Challenges

The women’s game in England has a deep-rooted history that dates back to the late 19th century. However, societal norms and institutional resistance impeded its growth for many years. The Football Association (FA) famously banned women’s football from their affiliated venues in 1921, a decision that would stymie development for the next five decades. It wasn’t until the FA lifted this ban in 1971 that women’s football could begin to grow in earnest.

Official Formation and Early Competitions

The official recognition of an England Women’s National Football Team came in 1972, followed by their inaugural international match against Scotland, which they won 3-2. Despite the victory, the team faced numerous challenges including lack of funding, inadequate training facilities, and minimal media coverage. These issues were common for many women’s sports teams but were particularly pronounced in football.

The Evolution of Support and Infrastructure

The 1990s and early 2000s marked a qualitative shift for the Lionesses. Increased funding and changes in societal attitudes towards women’s sports began to yield benefits. The FA Women’s Cup and Women’s Premier League (now the FA