Wrexham’s Lili Jones Ready for UEFA Women’s Champions League Adventure

Wrexham’s Lili Jones Ready for UEFA Women’s Champions League Adventure

June 19, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Sports

Wrexham women’s team will face FC Pyunik of Armenia in the UEFA Women’s Champions League on 22 July, marking the club’s first appearance in the competition. Midfielder Lili Jones told BBC Sport Wales that representing Wales on this stage is “massive” for the squad, which qualified after winning the Genero Adran Premier for the first time in club history last season.

Why is Wrexham women’s debut in Europe significant?

The women’s team’s entry into European competition comes as the club’s men’s side remains ineligible to represent Wales in Europe. According to Lili Jones, the men’s team has not played in Europe for 31 years, with their last appearance occurring in 1995 after featuring in eight Cup Winners Cup campaigns.

Why is Wrexham women's debut in Europe significant?

Jones stated that the opportunity to play for Wrexham and represent Wales is a significant milestone. She noted that the squad has worked through the off-season and is currently in the middle of pre-season training to ensure the players are fit for the tournament.

Did You Know? Wrexham’s men’s team last appeared in European competition in 1995, creating a 31-year gap before the women’s side secured their place in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

What is the tournament schedule and potential opponents?

Wrexham will compete in the semi-finals of the first qualifying round mini-tournament on 22 July. The hosts for this mini-tournament have not yet been confirmed.

HIGHLIGHTS | Wrexham AFC Women vs Aberystwyth Town (Genero Adran Trophy)

Should Wrexham overcome the Armenian champions, they may meet either Riga FC of Latvia or Northern Ireland’s Glentoran in the final. This final match is scheduled for 25 July.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter suggests that qualifying for the first round mini-tournament represents a critical shift for the club. By bridging a three-decade gap in European representation, the women’s team now carries the responsibility of restoring the Wrexham name to the continental stage.

Who are the key players entering the competition?

Defender Maria Francis-Jones joined Wrexham in February from Adran Premier rivals The New Saints. Despite previous stints with Sheffield United, Burnley, and Manchester City, Francis-Jones will be making her European debut with this campaign.

Who are the key players entering the competition?

Francis-Jones stated that the team is not there “just to fill up the numbers” and intends to compete. She told reporters that the squad will enter the tournament with a mindset focused on winning.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Wrexham women’s team play their first match?
The team faces FC Pyunik of Armenia on 22 July.

How did Wrexham qualify for the UEFA Women’s Champions League?
The team secured their place by winning the Genero Adran Premier for the first time in their history last season.

Who could Wrexham face in the tournament final?
If they win their semi-final, they may play Riga FC of Latvia or Glentoran of Northern Ireland on 25 July.

How do you think this European debut will impact the growth of women’s football in Wales?