Words Ben Edwards | Pictures Maisy Green

Congratulations to Carmen Stephens and Tsz Yiu Wong, who have received England and Hong Kong international call-ups, respectively.

Goalkeeper Stephens, on loan from WSL side Liverpool FC Women, has received a call-up for the Women's World Minifootball (WMF) World Cup 2026 in Croatia. She will link up with the England 6-a-side Lionesses' team in Mali Lošinj from 7-11 October.

On the call-up, head coach Daryll Abrahams said: 

"Since joining our team, Carmen has continued to develop both as a goalkeeper and as a person. 

"Her attitude, professionalism and willingness to learn have been excellent, and she has consistently embraced the demands and standards we set within the first team environment.

"Representing your country at any stage is a fantastic achievement, and it is something Carmen should be extremely proud of. To see a player who has played for Altrincham FC Women progressing through and earning international recognition is also a great reflection of the opportunities available within our programme.

"We are all incredibly proud of Carmen and will be supporting her all the way in Croatia. We know she will represent herself, Liverpool, Altrincham FC and England with the same enthusiasm, professionalism and determination that she brings every week."

James Findlow, head of goalkeeping, added:

“I’m absolutely delighted for Carmen. To be selected to represent England at a World Cup is a fantastic achievement and one she should be incredibly proud of.

"Since coming into our environment, Carmen has made a really positive impression both on and off the pitch. Her attitude, application and willingness to develop have been excellent, and this opportunity is thoroughly deserved.

"From a goalkeeping perspective, it’s brilliant to see one of our goalkeepers receiving international recognition. Representing your country on a world stage is a special opportunity, and everyone within our goalkeeping department and the wider club will be incredibly proud to see Carmen representing England in Croatia.

"We wish her the very best for the tournament and look forward to supporting her throughout what should be a fantastic experience.”

Meanwhile, Wong, who marked her Elite u18 debut against Bollington United u18 with two goals, will link-up with the Hong Kong Women u17 National Team from 2nd October to 13th October.

Congratulations once again to both players, we'll be following you from afar and wish you the best of luck representing Altrincham on the international stage.