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England’s men’s team will initiate their Euro 2028 journey at the Manchester City’s stadium, provided that they achieve the anticipated entry for a tournament staged throughout most of the United Kingdom and the Irish Republic.

City’s stadium has not staged an England men’s fixture since the spring of 2016, when the Turkish team were beaten 2-1 in a warm-up game, but is almost certain to welcome the England side for their first match on June 10, 2028.

England are scheduled to play their last two group stage games at the national stadium, but, in the event of winning Group B, their knockout stage opener would be held at Newcastle’s St James’ Park. Finishing second would mean beginning the playoffs at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Competition Launch and Rally

The championship was unveiled at an ceremony in central London on Wednesday evening. Senior figures from the tournament organizers and the host FAs were barracked as they entered the site by about 50 protesters, who demanded Israel’s national side to be removed from international football because of the Gaza crisis.

Signs were displayed with slogans stating “Show Israel the red card” and “You are complicit”, while activists chanted: “Kick Israel out.”

Event Timeline

The first match of Euro 2028 will be staged at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, on June 9, 2028, a game that will involve the Welsh team if they make it.

Wembley will host both semi-finals and the final, which will be played on a Sunday in July 2028 with a start time at late afternoon.

It is hoped that an afternoon start, which will also be implemented for Champions League finals from the following campaign, will cater to family audiences and help connect with a more diverse set of viewers.

Participating Countries

The Republic of Ireland are scheduled to play their first game at the Aviva Stadium and the Scottish team would do the same at Hampden Park.

The national sides of all four hosts will participate in the qualification process; two automatic spots will be set aside for any that do not reach Euro 2028 through the standard process.

Venues and Elimination Phase

Aston Villa’s stadium and Spurs’ ground finalize the event’s nine venues. All will hold at least one playoff fixture, with the quarterfinal matches held at each country’s national stadium.

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

Leadership Comment

“This will be a competition for the followers and a showcase of everything we cherish about the sport – its passion and ability to unite individuals.”

Over 3 million passes, a all-time high for a UEFA European Championship, are expected to be released to attendees.