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Fishlock returns to Wales coaching staff for World Cup playoffs

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 30, 2026, 7:14 AM

Last updated Sep 30, 2026

Fishlock returns to Wales coaching staff for World Cup playoffs
Summary

Rhian Wilkinson announced that Jess Fishlock will join the Wales national team as a coach for the Women's World Cup play-off final in December, provided they advance. Fishlock, Wales' most-capped footballer, had retired from international play last October but continues to perform well for Seattle Reign. The team faces Albania in the semi-final on October 9, missing several key players. If successful, they will play Norway or Romania in the final. Fishlock served as a technical assistant earlier in the qualifying campaign and offered to play, which was declined by Wilkinson.

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Status Watch
  • •Jess Fishlock will coach Wales if they reach the final.
  • •Wales plays Albania on October 9 in the semi-final.
  • •Fishlock scored two goals last weekend for Seattle Reign.
  • •Wilkinson declined Fishlock's offer to return as a player.
  • •Wales aims to reach the World Cup play-off final in December.
Latest Updates
  • 7:14 AMYahoo Sports — Fishlock set for Wales return - but not as player
  • 7:14 AMBBC Sport — Fishlock set for Wales return - but not as player
What they're saying
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Rhian Wilkinson says in-form Wales icon Jess Fishlock will be back with the national team if they reach a Women's World Cup play-off final in December – but only as a coach.

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Rhian Wilkinson says in-form Wales icon Jess Fishlock will be back with the national team if they reach a Women's World Cup play-off final in December – but only as a coach.

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