Our 2025 Women's Euros Predictions.
Can Spain claim a double? Could England defend their crown? We ask the writers at The Women's Football Chat to predict the action at this summer's tournament.
The 2025 Women’s European Championships are here! Throughout July, Switzerland will play host to the 14th Edition of the competition, the first major football competition held in the nation since they shared hosting privileges for the 2008 men’s Euros. In preparation for the tournament we’ve already done our predictions on YouTube and, in this piece, we ask the writing staff at The Women’s Football Chat what they expect to unfold in this summer of action.
Jack
Winners - England
It’s a particularly difficult Euros to predict this summer, with 4 main favourites - reigning World Champions Spain, reigning Euros Champions England, Euro 2022 finalists and 8-time-champions Germany and Nations League runners-up France - and a plethora of other sides like Netherlands, Sweden and Norway, all in the running to claim the title.
With that said, I struggle to look past England to claim the title again. It feels like many are unfairly writing off the lionesses, with injuries and retirements disrupting the squad and the sentiment that no team could possibly win successive Euros titles. However, I feel England are just as strong - if not stronger - than they were in 2022.
Young players like Alessia Russo and Ella Toone have become much more dependable players, substituting impact roles for starting spots since the victory in 2022. Particularly Russo who picked up the WSL golden boot this season and was integral in Arsenal’s surprise capture of the 2024/25 Champions League title. Lauren James, though she may only play a minor role at this competition, has blossomed into a world-class talent and developed significant maturity since her antics saw her suspended in the 2023 World Cup. Hannah Hampton has had quite an immense rise, usurping Lionesses legend Mary Earps from the number one spot in the England team.
Then there’s Sarina Wiegman. Her record in the European Championships is immaculate, with 12 victories from 12 matches contested and 2 titles across spells at the Netherlands and now with England. No other manager has won a Euros title since 2013, and Wiegman will be keen to uphold her dynasty in the competition for a further 4 years at least.
Dark Horses - Iceland
I am slightly concerned about the popularity of Iceland as the dark horses or underdog pick, as we often see teams built with such expectation fall short of those. However, I remain faithful that Iceland will have a strong tournament.
Iceland have been drawn a very kind group, with Finland and Switzerland feeling very winnable and, whilst Norway should represent a stretch in quality, their perennial knack of failing to meet expectations makes it easy to see them stumbling once again. If Iceland do progress through as group winners, a tie against 2nd in Group B - likely Belgium, Portugal or Italy - could be favourable for Iceland with form on their side. Ultimately, progression beyond this point feels a stretch too far but Iceland have the quality to get to this point.
Sveindís Jónsdóttir is undoubtedly their brightest spark. The dynamic forward struggled for consistent game time at Wolfsburg but her quality is immeasurable. Her tricky dribbling, dogged determination and keen eye for goal make her a constant threat and convinced Angel City to sign her upon the expiration of her contract last month. Iceland won’t be relying solely on her to provide the goals, however, as Karólína Lea Vilhjálmsdóttir, the Bayer Leverkusen attacker, is more than capable of adding contributions from attacking midfield.
Golden Boot - Sandy Baltimore
It’s difficult to predict the golden boot in a tournament that has so many big nations meeting in the group stage, and many would lean towards Spain or Germany given their apparent advantage over the other teams in their respective groups. However, I look at Sandy Baltimore’s form and fixtures as an opportunity to win the golden boot.
In the most recent Nations League matches, Baltimore registered 5 goals across 6 matches, averaging 0.84 goals per match whilst only taking 11 attempts on goal. This demonstrates the effectiveness of Baltimore’s finishing and if France can continue to utilise her correctly, Baltimore will be a huge threat across the competition. From France’s average positions in the 2-0 win over Iceland, we can observe how central Baltimore operates. In this game, she is coming inside from the right flank but we will see her operate similarly on the left.
Another important factor in winning a golden boot is fixtures. In the group stage, they will face England, Netherlands and Wales. Wales is a great fixture for Baltimore as it is one that France should impose their dominance in. The Netherlands game is one that France have the potential to score a few, looking at how they have defended in recent fixtures. Against England, Baltimore will have space to attack behind Lucy Bronze, who often pushes too high up the pitch and gets caught out. If France are looking to exploit England’s weakness, Baltimore will be a huge part of this.
Additionally, France should go deep at the competition. If they can top Group D, it would likely see them matchup against Sweden or Denmark which would be favourable for Les Bleues. So whilst players like Alessia Russo, Claudia Pina, Mariona Caldentey and Lea Schüller may be more likely, I think Sandy Baltimore will claim the 2025 Women’s Euros Golden Boot.
Biggest Disappointment - Sweden
I know this won’t be a popular selection but I am not big on Sweden ahead of this tournament. Usually consistent performers, Sweden have featured in every edition of the Women’s Euros - the only team to do so - and have never failed to qualify from the group stage. However, I could see an upset occurring in Group C.
Sweden’s squad is aging. The squad has an average age of 29.4, the oldest at this summer’s Euros by a distance. They still rely too heavily on players like Kosovare Asllani and Sofia Jakobsson, both of whom are now 35 years old, and five of the expected starting eleven will be over 30 years old. This isn’t necessarily a problem, but the aging squad will struggle to compete physically with younger teams at the tournament, especially considering the physical toll of international tournaments in which teams play 3 matches in 8 matches.
It’s also a sign of the lack of progression generally in the Sweden camp. There’s a frustration from fans that younger players haven’t been handed opportunities in the national team.
I could be considerably off with this prediction. Sweden did beat Denmark 6-1 in their last Nations League game after all. But if there’s going to be a surprise exit in the group stage, I could see it being Sweden.
Harry
Winners - England
Having been drawn in the “Group of Death” with a predicted difficult Quarter-final tie (one of Germany, Sweden or Denmark), many people have discarded the Lionesses as favourites to retain their crown. However, viewing the situation with optimism, the challenge provides England with a great opportunity to prove their strength and defeat their rivals for the trophy in the early stages. The route to success in 2022 was far from optimal - Spain in the last 8, past winners Sweden in the Semi-finals and the eight-time champions Germany in the final. Weigman and her side have proven that on their day, they can overcome whoever is in their path.
Of course there have been problems surrounding the England camp in the last few months, but it’s hardly been plain sailing for the other Euros favourites. Spain has a manager who has never coached at a major international tournament, and the unfortunate illness for Aitana Bonmati is a huge blow for the reigning world champions. France’s squad has seen a “Changing of the Guard” as legends Wendie Renard and Eugénie Le Sommer miss out this summer. And as for Germany, retirements from Alexandra Popp and Lina Magull, with a manager in Christian Wück who takes his first senior role in management since 2010, mean that they will surprise a few if they take the title this summer.
Overall, England have the quality and the proven record to grind their way to back-to-back European Championship titles.
Dark Horses - Iceland
Having been grouped in three of their five tournament appearances so far, Iceland lack the history that some of the other “dark horses” in the competition have. However, with a mix of emerging young talent and experienced WSL players, I feel that this year Iceland could do something very special. The run does fall kindly for them if they can navigate their group wisely and, with a few good performances, Iceland could find themselves in the Semi-finals of the European Championships.
Their qualifying campaign was mightily impressive - a convincing 3-0 victory over Germany being the highlight of their run that led them to automatically qualify for the Euros this summer. They’ve proven across the last year and a half that they can take the challenge to some of the best sides in the world and have a squad that is littered with grit and determination to defend well and grind out results.
If they can take the tournament game by game, and deal with every fixture in the same professional manner that they’ve shown recently, they could really put a cat amongst the pigeons this summer.
Golden Boot - Claudia Pina
After an incredible season with Barcelona, Claudia Pina looks unstoppable as we enter this summer’s Euros. She picked up the UWCL Golden Boot in some style, with her performance against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge being the highlight of her campaign. For a player to have such great technical ability mixed with strong physical attributes, Spain’s Pina poses a terrifying prospect for every single defence at the European Championships. Whether she’s starting or coming off the bench, Claudia Pina will have a huge impact at this tournament - her cameo against England only a month ago showed how she only needs a short time on the pitch to make a difference.
Biggest Disappointment - Portugal
Despite some competitive UEFA Women’s Nations League performances, I haven’t seen enough from Portugal to show that they could mount any challenge at this summer’s competition. They were dismantled by both England and Spain, and without Kika Nazareth they lacked any spark or courage. Even with a fully fit strongest XI, they’ve relied on poor performances from other sides in order to get results. Qualification was strong but they did start in League B, before pulling off a scrappy aggregate win over Czechia. Huffing and puffing and waiting for teams to slip up will not work at the Euros. If Nazareth isn’t fit and ready for the group stage, I think Portugal could be dumped out of the tournament without a trace. A nation who have been building and improving in the last few years, for me look bound to make it three group stage exits in a row at the European Championships.
Kei
Winners - Germany
Germany is positioning itself as one of the strongest contenders to win the title, alongside England and Spain. However, the latter two arrive with significantly more media pressure. While the spotlight remains fixed on England and Spain, the Germans have quietly been building momentum, collecting strong results and displaying a very solid and convincing style of play.
Spain, a team that can never be ruled out due to the immense talent in its squad, is currently under the direction of head coach Montse Tomé. Despite the quality, they don’t seem to be showing the same level of dominance as in previous tournaments. At times, they appear slightly dependent on the performance of specific key players, which could pose a risk in high-pressure matches.
England, on paper, is seen as the clear favorite to win the trophy once again. They’ve shown flashes of brilliance, with performances like the dominant wins over Jamaica and Portugal at Wembley. However, inconsistency remains a concern, especially in the defensive third. Unexpected results like the loss to Belgium, the away draw against Portugal, and the narrow defeat to Spain have raised questions. Despite the squad’s depth, there are moments of disconnection on the pitch that cast some doubt.
Returning to Germany, the most successful team in the competition’s history, they approach this tournament with less to lose and much to prove. After the disappointment of the previous final, they look motivated to restore their pride. The team seems well balanced, managing a generational transition effectively with a blend of young talent and experienced leadership. Without the overwhelming media expectations, Germany could become the team to beat, quietly, but powerfully.
Dark Horses - Poland and Belgium
I believe both Belgium and Poland are national teams that could do serious damage if underestimated. Belgium arrives at this tournament with the clear mission to stop being seen as a team with potential and instead become a solid reality in European football. They want to leave behind the label of being a difficult team to play against and take a step forward in this edition by making history again, just as they did in the previous tournament when they reached the quarter-finals.
Belgium is a team known for playing with a compact and organized structure, one that is difficult to break. They also have players with qualities that can be extremely dangerous on the counterattack. This was evident in their unexpected win over England, as well as in their match against Spain in Valencia. Although the Spanish side won by the narrowest margin, Belgium stood firm and made things very complicated for the reigning world champions.
Poland will be making their Euros debut arriving with real momentum and the desire to make history. Their squad features a major figure in European football, Ewa Pajor, the current top scorer for FC Barcelona. Much is expected from her as she leads her country with the ambition to surprise in this tournament. Poland is a team playing without the pressure that usually weighs on the bigger nations. Their roster combines experienced players with promising young talent that brings energy and freshness to the group.
Both teams have the kinds of attributes that, in short-format tournaments like the Euros, can be enough to create unforgettable moments. With the right mix of discipline, ambition, and decisive performances, Belgium and Poland could become two of the most unexpected but exciting stories of the summer.
Golden Boot - Claudia Pina
Claudia Pina is undoubtedly entering the stage of her career that could catapult her into becoming one of the most clinical forwards of this new generation. She has it all, speed, technique, dribbling ability, and a powerful left-footed shot that makes her a constant threat in the opponent’s box.
Whether she starts the match or comes off the bench, Pina has already proven that she’s a game-changer. She consistently makes an impact and can turn a match around in a matter of seconds. Her versatility and decisiveness are rare qualities at such a young age, and they set her apart from many of her peers.
Regarding the race for the Golden Boot, Pina may have a slight edge, at least on paper, over one of the other main contenders in my view, Alessia Russo. The English striker, like Pina, is coming off one of the most impressive seasons of her professional career. However, what tips the balance slightly in Pina’s favor is the group stage draw. While Russo will be facing tougher competition in what is being called the “Group of Death,” Pina will go up against more modest opponents, at least on paper. This could give her a significant head start in the goal tally during the early stages of the tournament.
Claudia Pina is no longer just a promising young talent, she is becoming a decisive force, and the Euros could be her platform to shine even brighter.
Biggest disappointment - Netherlands
Given their recent form and injury troubles, the Oranje Leeuwinnen may struggle to make it out of the group stage— a scenario that would mark a disappointing chapter for a team once considered elite. Under the leadership of head coach Andries Jonker, the Netherlands have been drawn into the so-called “Group of Death,” where they will face a powerful England side, a resurgent and motivated France, and even Wales, who could cause trouble.
Combined with the inconsistency the Dutch team has shown in recent years, this scenario could lead to what many would consider a failure in this edition of the Euros.
The truth is, these have not been bright times for the Dutch side. After their quarter-final elimination in the 2023 World Cup, their failure to qualify for the Olympics, and their recent exit from the Nations League, the team seems far from the heights they once reached. It’s worth remembering that the Netherlands are one of only five nations to have won the Women’s Euro, and were World Cup finalists in 2019. That golden generation, filled with rising European stars, marked the most successful era in the team’s history.
However, it feels like the team is still living off past glories.
The current performance level does not reflect what was once expected. One of the major setbacks has been the repeated injuries to key players such as Vivianne Miedema, Daniëlle van de Donk, and Victoria Pelova, which have often occurred at critical stages of major tournaments, significantly weakening the team when it mattered most. In addition, the international retirements of legends like Lieke Martens, Sari van Veenendaal, and Stefanie van der Gragt have left a noticeable void in both leadership and experience.
Still, I believe the core problem lies in the inability of the technical and administrative leadership to manage a smooth generational transition.
With the talent this country possesses, a well-planned strategy could have achieved a balance between youth and experience. Instead, the team remains dependent on players who, although still outstanding, are no longer at their physical or mental peak.
The Netherlands needs a refreshed atmosphere and a spark of motivation, hopefully to come after the current coach steps down. As a long-time supporter of this team, I truly hope they return to their former level, find their identity again, and manage a thoughtful, player-centered transition. Still, I don’t believe this tournament will be the moment when that change finally takes hold.
Allegra
Winners - Germany
Germany approached UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 with the pedigree of eight-time champions and the momentum of a revitalised side under the stewardship of Christian Wück. Since taking charge, Wück has instilled a dynamic and disciplined tactical identity, with Germany winning five of their last six fixtures, scoring 26 goals and conceding only twice. This resurgence follows the disappointment of their group-stage exit at the 2023 World Cup, and positions them as one of the most tactically and technically complete squads in the tournament.
Wück has favoured a high-octane 4-2-3-1 system that hinges on pressing from the front and exploiting transitions. His tactical setup maximises the attacking flair of players like Bayern Munich’s Lea Schüller, who scored 15 goals in the Frauen-Bundesliga this season, and Klara Bühl, whose pace and two-footed creativity on the flanks have been vital in both chance creation as well as being a goal-threat herself. Even with midfielder 2022’s young player of the Euro’s Lena Oberdorf (ruled out through injury), Germany possess quality depth in the midfield beyond that of any fellow competitor, with elite talent such as Sjoeke Nüsken, Sydney Lohmann and Linda Dallmann offering energy and control in central areas, allowing Germany to dominate possession while remaining dangerous in broken play.
Defensively, captain Giulia Gwinn, arguably one of Europe's best full backs, leads a unit that is tactically disciplined and physically robust, with goalkeeper Ann Katerin-Berger continuing to provide a steady presence between the sticks after her immense 2024 Olympics Campaign. Boasting the best defence in the lead up to Euro 25’, with Germany conceding just 2 goals in their past 6 matches, averaging 0.33 goals against per game. Furthermore, Germany have kept 4 clean sheets in that span and allowed fewer than 5 shots on target per match. Not just clear evidence of their structural solidity and control in defensive phases, but a positive reassertion in the adage that defense very much does win you trophies.
Germany's Squad also boasts great depth and blends tournament-hardened experience with a new generation of technically gifted talent. In attack, beyond the starting trio of Lea Schüller, Klara Bühl, and Jule Brand, Germany can call upon Laura Freigang, a prolific finisher with a sharp instinct in the box, and Nicole Anyomi, whose directness and pace can stretch tired defences late in matches.
Under Christian Wück, Germany’s 4-2-3-1 system is designed to press high, force turnovers, and transition with immediate verticality. This creates a constant supply of high-quality chances, particularly in broken play- an area where Germany are statistically and tactically dominant. In the lead-up to the tournament, Germany have averaged over 4 goals per match across friendlies and qualifiers, a figure unmatched by their rivals. Their attack isn’t reliant on one channel though, it’s multi-dimensional, capable of breaking low blocks, punishing transitional space, and thriving in chaos.
With players such as Lea Schüller, Klara Bühl, Jule Brand, and Laura Friegang, Germany possesses an attacking quartet that combines pace, precision, creativity, and clinical finishing at the highest level. Schüller leads the line with instinctive movement and composure in front of goal, while Bühl and Brand offer width, dribbling ability, and constant vertical threat on the flanks. Nuskin and Loehman, operating as the central playmaker’s, bring vision and control, linking midfield to attack with incisive passing and late runs into the box. Together, they form one of the most cohesive and dangerous attacking units in the tournament capable of dismantling low blocks, punishing high lines, and turning defensive errors into goals within seconds.
Germany's balance in strength in attack and solidity in defence that ultimately positions them to win this tournament confidently. Drawn into a deceptively challenging Group C with Sweden, Denmark, and Poland, Germany will be tested early. However, their recent form, tactical maturity, and depth across the squad suggest they are well-equipped not only to top the group but to mount a serious challenge for what would be a record-extending ninth European crown.
Dark Horses - Iceland
Positioning themselves as a genuine dark horse heading into Euro 2025, Iceland has quietly built momentum over the past year that doesn’t only reflect in their results but also in their evolving tactical maturity and squad depth. Despite not traditionally being considered among Europe’s elite, their recent performances show a team capable of punching above their weight and being a genuine competitor in Switzerland this summer.
Over the last 12 months, Iceland’s results have been promising, notably holding strong sides like Switzerland and Norway- teams they will face in Group A of the upcoming tournament- to draws in the Women’s Nations League, including a high-scoring 3-3 draw against Switzerland and a 1-1 stalemate with Norway. These results highlight Iceland’s ability to compete tightly against established teams and demonstrate a resilience that has become a defining trait of their play. Their disciplined defensive structure, combined with an increasing tactical awareness, allows them to absorb pressure effectively while creating opportunities through swift transitions. This balance of defensive solidity and counter attacking threat makes Iceland unpredictable and difficult to break down, qualities that are essential for success in tournament football where margins are often slim.
Tactically, Iceland operates primarily in a disciplined 4-3-3 formation that balances defensive organization with quick transitions. Central to their approach is captain and center-back Glódís Perla Viggósdóttir, whose leadership and composure provide a backbone for the team’s solid defensive shape. Iceland excels in maintaining a compact defensive block with their overall defensive record in recent qualifiers and Nations League games seeing them conceding fewer than 1 goal per game on average, which is impressive for a team outside the traditional top-tier nations and an indicator for their structural solidity coming into the tournament. Inter Milan’s Serie A Goalkeeper of the season Cecilía Rán Rúnarsdóttir also deserves mention for her shot-stopping skills, often keeping Iceland in tight matches with key saves.
The team’s midfielders work hard to disrupt opposition play and quickly recycle possession, enabling their wingers and forwards, such as rising star Sveindís Jónsdóttir, to exploit spaces on the break. Jónsdóttir’s versatility and attacking threat add a vital dimension, combining pace and creativity to challenge defenses that may underestimate Iceland’s attacking potential.
Looking at their group dynamics, Iceland is drawn alongside hosts Switzerland, Norway, and Finland—teams they have recent experience competing with closely and who are, in terms of quality, extremely evenly matched. This familiarity, combined with their tactical discipline and recent results, gives Iceland a strategic edge in potentially navigating through the group stages and into the knockout rounds. If they can maintain their defensive solidity while capitalizing on swift counterattacks and set pieces, they could upset several higher-ranked teams.
Ultimately, Iceland’s blend of tactical discipline, solid defensive stats, and emerging attacking talent positions them as one of the most intriguing dark horses for Women’s Euro 2025. Their recent results demonstrate resilience and growth, while their structured and pragmatic playing style- a style renownedly fit for tournament football- allows them to adapt and compete effectively against opponents both of even footing and even, further in the tournament, against tougher opposition. With key players in form and a clear game plan, Iceland has the tools to surprise many and progress deep into the tournament—potentially reaching the knockout stages for the first time since 2013. Their cohesion, tactical discipline, and ability to capitalise on small margins make them a dangerous opponent for any side that underestimates them. If they can maintain their current trajectory, Iceland won't just be a feel-good story—they’ll be a genuine threat.
Golden Boot: Lea Schüller
Lea Schüller stands as a leading contender for the Euro 2025 Golden Boot, underpinned by her exceptional form and pivotal role in Germany's attacking strategy.
During the 2024–25 Frauen-Bundesliga season, Schüller netted 11 goals in 22 appearances for Bayern Munich, averaging 0.78 goals per 90 minutes. Notably, she scored a hat-trick in the DFB-Pokal final, contributing to Bayern's domestic double. Internationally, she has amassed 52 goals in 75 caps for Germany, including six during Euro 2025 qualifying.
Her Germany form has been even more prolific: 6 goals in Euro 2025 qualifying and 52 goals in 75 senior caps underline her status as the side’s primary goal threat.
Under head coach Christian Wück, Germany have adopted a high-tempo 4-2-3-1 system defined by relentless pressing, vertical passing, and intelligent off-ball movement. At the heart of this structure is Lea Schüller, whose role as the lone striker is not only pivotal in finishing moves, but in initiating them. Far from a static target forward, Schüller functions as the pressing trigger in Wück’s front line, constantly disrupting opposition build-up and forcing turnovers high up the pitch. Her ability to lead the press with discipline and intent sets the tone for Germany’s defensive structure, allowing the attacking midfield trio to swarm second balls and launch immediate counters.
Tactically, Schüller thrives in Wück’s vertical scheme. With Germany prioritising quick progression through the central lanes and wide overloads, she is regularly the beneficiary of broken defensive shapes and unbalanced lines. Her timing of runs, particularly in that crucial inside-left channel, is among the best in Europe. She consistently positions herself just off the shoulder of centre-backs, exploiting delayed transitions or slow recoveries with precision. In matches where Germany’s press generates quick turnovers, Schüller’s instinct to ghost into space and finish clinically from limited touches becomes a critical weapon.
Wück’s system amplifies her greatest strengths. The presence of technically sharp wingers like Klara Bühl and Jule Brand stretches defences horizontally, while aggressive full-backs pin opposition wide players deep. This creates central corridors for Schüller to attack, whether from whipped deliveries or threaded passes. Her spatial awareness and ability to make double-movements in the box, pulling defenders away before darting goal-side, make her not just a finisher, but a constant goal-threat.
Germany’s Group C draw at Euro 2025 featuring Sweden, Denmark, and Poland, may appear challenging on paper, but it offers Lea Schüller a clearer path to the Golden Boot compared to forwards from nations like Spain or England, whose group-stage fixtures are likely to be more tactically restrictive and low-scoring.
Poland, the lowest-ranked team in the group, conceded 13 goals in their qualifying campaign—among the highest of teams that made the tournament. Against their porous and often passive defensive structure, Germany’s high-pressing 4-2-3-1 system is likely to create numerous chances, with Schüller at the tip of that spear. Denmark, meanwhile, are tactically disciplined but vulnerable in transition; they conceded eight goals in eight qualifiers and struggled to contain mobile strikers like Schüller during recent friendlies. Sweden are traditionally robust but have aged in key defensive areas, and their shift toward a more possession-oriented style may leave them exposed to Germany’s pace on the break.
By contrast, England and Spain face tightly compact defensive units—such as Italy, Belgium, or Norway—who tend to frustrate dominant teams by sitting deep. With fewer open-play opportunities, players like England's Alessia Russo or France’s Marie-Antoinette Katoto, may find goals harder to come by. Schüller’s combination of movement, finishing, and an aggressive German system makes her better poised to strike early and often in the group stage.
Lea Schüller emerges not only as a strong candidate for the Golden Boot but as the most strategically positioned forward in the tournament to win it. Her prolific scoring record at both club and international level, coupled with her integral role in a Germany side built to dominate high up the pitch, places her in the ideal environment for sustained goal output. Wück’s tactical system is designed to create space, exploit disorganisation, and generate high-quality chances- exactly the conditions in which Schüller thrives.
What elevates her above the other equally prolific attackers in the tournament, is the blend of individual efficiency and collective support. While others may face low blocks and tight margins, Schüller will operate against defensive lines vulnerable to the type of dynamic, vertical football that Germany now excels at. With the tools around her; elite service, tactical freedom, and a group stage that favours offensive volume, she is uniquely placed to build a Golden Boot campaign from the outset.
Biggest Disappointment - Norway
Norway enters the Euro 2025 with a rich legacy, yet recent trends suggest the team is unlikely to meet expectations in this tournament. Despite possessing talented individuals and a proud history, the combination of inconsistent results, offensive inefficiency, defensive vulnerabilities, and managerial transition paints a challenging picture for Norway’s prospects.
Over the past year, Norway’s performance has been emblematic of a deeper, systemic struggle rather than just isolated poor results. Their patchy record, marked by draws and losses not only against Europe’s elite but also against mid-tier teams, speaks to a team that no longer commands authority on the continental stage and reveals a Norway side struggling to keep pace with the rapid evolution of the game, exposing a worrying gap in quality and adaptability. If this trend continues, it’s hard to see how Norway will meet the rigorous demands of a major tournament like Euro 2025.
The critical concern that belies Norway’s recent form is their offensive output. The team has struggled to convert chances, averaging only 0.5 goals per game recently. While the squad includes prominent attackers such as Ada Hegerberg and Caroline Graham Hansen, overall attacking cohesion remains lacking. In modern women’s football, where defensive organizations have grown increasingly robust, Norway’s inability to generate consistent goal-scoring opportunities could severely limit their effectiveness.
Defensively, Norway has demonstrated notable vulnerabilities, conceding an average of approximately 0.9 goals per match over the past year. While this figure may not appear overtly alarming in isolation, when combined with a strikingly ineffective offense culminates in a negative goal differential that places the team under persistent pressure. Such defensive lapses have frequently occurred during critical phases of matches, undermining Norway’s ability to maintain control and secure results. In the high-stakes context of a major tournament like Euro 2025, these marginal defensive shortcomings are magnified and can be the difference between progression and an early exit. Norway’s inability to consistently organize and maintain defensive discipline against quality opposition exposes a fundamental fragility that opponents will be eager to exploit. Without marked improvement in defensive coordination and resilience, the team risks conceding pivotal goals that could derail their tournament ambitions.
Gemma Grainger’s appointment in 2023 introduced a new strategic framework, yet the team’s adjustment phase is ongoing. Blending experienced veterans with emerging talents remains a challenge, and the lack of a fully settled system may undermine Norway’s ability to deliver consistent performances. While the depth of talent is undeniable, the chemistry between player profiles hasn’t fully settled, and there are signs of tactical imbalance, especially when facing high-pressing teams or those that target Norway’s defensive flanks. The back line, though experienced, lacks pace, and when the midfield shape breaks down under pressure, Norway becomes vulnerable to fast counters.
This tactical instability undermines Norway’s ability to produce consistent, high-level performances across the tournament. In major competitions where rhythm, structure, and clarity of identity are critical, a team still adapting to a new system is at greater risk of being exposed, particularly in tightly contested group-stage matches where small margins are decisive. Unless Grainger can solidify her approach and clearly define roles within the system ahead of Euro 2025, Norway could struggle to convert their potential into results.
Norway’s group stage draw presents additional hurdles. Seeing hosts Switzerland, Finland, and Iceland, Norway faces a competitive group stage environment, one similar to their 2023 Women's world cup campaign where not only did they underperform, but were taken to the final game just to reach the Knockouts after a poor group stage results. Switzerland’s home advantage and recent strong form elevate the challenge, while Finland and Iceland have proven difficult opponents in recent fixtures, playing a game style that has frustrated Norway in the past.
In summary, while Norway retains individual talent and an undeniably high historical pedigree, several structural and tactical issues suggest the team is poised to underperform at Women’s Euro 2025. Inconsistent results, offensive inefficiency, defensive instability, and ongoing managerial adaptation combine to create a challenging path forward. Without significant improvements in these areas, Norway’s campaign risks ending prematurely, underscoring the evolving competitive landscape of women’s football in Europe.
