Keating believes England's Etihad fixture will be a 'special night' | OneFootball

As the Lionesses prepare to face Brazil at the Etihad Stadium this weekend, we caught up with City and England goalkeeper Khiara Keating.

England face Brazil at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday 25 October, with kick-off set for 17:30 (UK).

Three members of the City squad are hoping to feature for the Lionesses in Saturday’s clash.

Joined by Alex Greenwood and Laura Blindkilde Brown is Keating who’s looking to make her first international appearance for the European Champions.

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Off the back of the tournament, women’s football has reached new heights in popularity, with Northern-based fans getting the opportunity to watch the Lionesses at the home of Manchester City.

And for Keating, a lifelong City fan, Saturday’s game at the Etihad will be extra special.

“I think it’s about time we had a game up North,” she laughed.

“I think obviously supporting City and playing for City, it’s always going to be a special one, and hopefully the Manchester crowd will come through.

“I think it’s always a big thing [playing at big stadiums], obviously women’s football’s growing, I think selling out Wembley time after time shows you how big the game has grown and hopefully we can do the same for the Etihad.”

Keating made the move to the Joie Stadium in 2015, and shortly after joining City she began training with the first-team at 16 years old.

She made five appearances in the 2021/22 campaign: three in the FA Women’s Super League and two in the Continental Cup.

But she really came alight during the 2023/24, when Keating featured 29 times across the campaign, earning herself the WSL Golden Glove award.

City conceded just 15 times during the season, and Keating’s exploits saw her earn a well-deserved first senior England call-up in October 2023.

“I love it,” Keating said, reflecting on her time with the England senior team so far.

“It’s like my second family. I can be myself, I can play football, I can win trophies. Yeah, there’s not much to complain about.”

The 22-year-old also touched on the importance of the fans and the impact they have on the team, especially during tough games.

“Fans are always important when times are hard, and they’re also there when times are good. So [they play a] very big role. I think just make as much noise as possible.”

Finally, Khiara had a message to supporters who are thinking about coming to the game.

“Make sure you come, and I’ll see you there.”