The UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 kicked off in Switzerland with an electrifying opening day, as Finland pulled off a surprise win over Iceland and Norway staged a thrilling comeback to defeat the host nation, Switzerland. Fans were treated to drama, skill, and unforgettable moments as Group A set the tone for what promises to be a captivating tournament.
Finland Edges Iceland 1-0 in Tournament Opener
Finland, widely considered underdogs in Group A, delivered a statement victory by defeating Iceland 1-0 in the opening match. The game remained goalless in the first half, with both sides creating chances but failing to break through.
Key moments from the match:
- 16’: Katariina Kosola’s shot forced a strong save from Iceland’s goalkeeper.
- 28’: Iceland’s Glódís Viggósdóttir nearly scored with a powerful header.
- 58’: Iceland’s Hildur Antonsdóttir was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, leaving her team with 10 players.
- 70’: Kosola, after several near-misses, cut in from the left and curled a brilliant right-footed shot into the top corner, sealing the win for Finland.
Iceland fought valiantly despite being a player down, with Sveindís Jónsdóttir missing a golden chance to equalize in the 75th minute and again in stoppage time. Finland’s defense held firm, giving them their first win at the Women’s EURO in 16 years and a crucial three points in a balanced group.
Norway Battles Back to Defeat Switzerland 2-1
The evening clash saw Norway take on host nation Switzerland in front of a record-breaking crowd in Basel. Switzerland started strong, dominating the first half and taking the lead:
- 28’: Nadine Riesen scored for Switzerland with a superb strike that bounced in off the post.
- 54’: Norway equalized when Ada Hegerberg headed in from a Vilde Bøe Risa corner, marking her 50th international goal and her first at a Women’s EURO since 2013.
- 58’: Just four minutes later, Norway went ahead as Caroline Graham Hansen’s cross was inadvertently turned into the Swiss net by defender Julia Stierli.
Switzerland pressed for an equalizer, coming close in the dying moments, but Norway held on for a vital win. The result marked the first time a Women’s EURO host has lost their opening match since the group stage was introduced in 1997.
Group A Standings After Day 1
| Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finland | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Norway | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Switzerland | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Iceland | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
What These Results Mean for the Tournament
- Finland’s win shakes up Group A, giving them momentum and belief as the lowest-ranked team in the group.
- Norway’s comeback demonstrates their resilience and star power, especially with Hegerberg back among the goals.
- Switzerland will need to regroup quickly, while Iceland faces an uphill battle after their opening defeat and red card setback.
FAQs: Women’s EURO 2025 Day 1
Q1: Who scored the winning goal for Finland against Iceland?
A: Katariina Kosola scored the decisive goal in the 70th minute, curling a right-footed shot into the top corner.
Q2: How did Norway come back to beat Switzerland?
A: Norway scored two goals in four minutes—Ada Hegerberg’s header and an own goal by Julia Stierli—to overturn a 1-0 deficit and win 2-1.
Q3: Why was Iceland reduced to 10 players?
A: Hildur Antonsdóttir received a second yellow card in the 58th minute, leaving Iceland with 10 players for the remainder of the match.
Q4: Where is the Women’s EURO 2025 being held?
A: The tournament is hosted by Switzerland, with matches played across eight cities including Basel and Bern.
Q5: What’s next for Group A teams?
A: Finland and Norway will look to build on their wins, while Switzerland and Iceland aim to bounce back in their next matches.
Women’s EURO 2025 is off to a thrilling start, with underdogs rising and favorites tested. As the action continues, expect more drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments on the road to crowning Europe’s best women’s team.
