2024 women’s football: Anticipating seven significant stories throughout the year

Last year marked a historic chapter for women’s football, and the momentum is poised to continue into 2024 with a myriad of compelling events. Here, we delve into seven noteworthy developments to anticipate in the months ahead, ranging from debut finals to the long-awaited announcement of a World Cup host, all while bidding farewell to Chelsea’s iconic manager, a six-time Women’s Super League winner, Emma Hayes.

1. Olympic Title Battle (July 24 – August 10):

• The highlight of the year is the women’s football competition at Paris 2024, featuring 16 teams competing for the gold medal.
• Canada, the USA, Colombia, Brazil, and France have already qualified, leaving 11 spots up for grabs.
• The Nations League finals will decide the two remaining UEFA spots, with Australia, Japan, and Samoa contending for their respective regions.

2. Nations League History-Making (February):

• The inaugural Nations League concludes in February, with Spain, France, the Netherlands, and Germany vying for the title.
• The tournament will determine the final two European places for Paris 2024.

3. Inaugural Concacaf W Gold Cup (February – March):

• The USA hosts the historic W Gold Cup in February and March, featuring teams like Canada, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Panama.
• Top finishers from Copa América and three single-leg playoffs will secure remaining Concacaf places.

4. Quest for a New European Club Champion (May):

• Bilbao hosts the conclusion of the 23rd Women’s Champions League in May.
• Chelsea, under Emma Hayes, seeks the elusive trophy. Barcelona and Lyon have secured quarter-final places, while Group C remains highly competitive.

5. Euro 2025 Finalists Unveiled (April):

• Following the Nations League, European qualification for Euro 2025 begins in April.
• Switzerland, despite relegation, secures an automatic place as hosts. The top two from League A and playoffs will determine the final seven nations.

6. World Cup Host Announcement (May):

• FIFA is set to announce the host country for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in May.
• USA and Mexico, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, and Brazil are vying for the opportunity.

7. Hayes Takes Over the USWNT:

• Emma Hayes, Chelsea’s six-time Women’s Super League-winning manager, will take over the US women’s national team after the Women’s Super League.
• Facing the challenge of revitalizing the team, she leads the USWNT to the Olympics shortly after concluding her tenure with Chelsea.

As we step into 2024, the stage is set for another groundbreaking year in women’s football, rich with historical firsts and thrilling competitions.