The journey of England's Lionesses is a story of resilience, triumph, and historic milestones. This Saturday, as they face Iceland in Reykjavik for their 500th official fixture, they stand as double European champions—a far cry from their humble beginnings over half a century ago.

This landmark match is more than just a World Cup qualifier; it's a testament to the incredible evolution of women's football in England. To understand how they got here, we must look back at the pivotal moments that shaped their legacy, starting from a time when the game was actively suppressed.

In a stark contrast to today's packed stadiums, the Football Association infamously banned women's football in 1921, deeming it "unsuitable for females." This ban, which lasted 50 years, forced the sport into obscurity before being rightfully overturned in 1971, setting the stage for a new era.

The official rebirth began in November 1972 with the first match organised by the Women's Football Association. England traveled to Greenock, Scotland, and in front of 400 fans, secured a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory. Just a year later, they announced their arrival at home with a stunning 8-0 win in Nuneaton, laying the foundation for everything to come.

Their path to the global stage continued with a major tournament debut in 1984, entering a UEFA competition that was the direct forerunner to the Women's European Championship. Each of these steps, from fighting for recognition to competing for trophies, has been a building block in the Lionesses' remarkable 500-game journey to becoming a dominant force in world football.