Day 5 of the Women’s Euro 2025 delivered high drama and pivotal results in Group A. Norway clinched a tense 2-1 win over Finland to secure their place in the quarter-finals, while hosts Switzerland kept their knockout dreams alive with a decisive 2-0 victory against Iceland. Here’s how the action unfolded and what it means for the tournament’s next stage.
Norway vs Finland: Graham Hansen’s Late Magic Seals the Win
Norway entered their clash with Finland as group leaders, but it was far from a straightforward victory. The Norwegians were pushed to their limits by a determined Finnish side, who dominated large stretches of the game.
Key Moments
Early Own Goal: Norway struck first in the third minute when a dangerous cross from Caroline Graham Hansen was inadvertently turned into the net by Finland’s Eva Nyström.
Finland’s Response: Finland’s Oona Sevenius leveled the score in the 32nd minute with a composed left-footed finish, capping off a period of sustained pressure from the Finns.
Norway’s Frustration: Norway hit the woodwork twice in quick succession midway through the first half and were repeatedly denied by Finnish goalkeeper Anna Koivunen, who made a series of outstanding saves.
Late Decisive Goal: With the match heading for a draw, Graham Hansen produced a moment of brilliance in the 84th minute—a cross that curled off the post and into the net, sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory for Norway.
Tactical Insights
- Finland controlled the midfield for much of the first half, forcing Norway to make tactical changes at halftime.
- Norwegian goalkeeper Cecilie Fiskerstrand played a crucial role, making key saves to keep her team in the game.
With this win, Norway not only secured their second victory in as many matches but also became the first team to qualify for the Women’s Euro 2025 quarter-finals, topping Group A with six points.
Switzerland vs Iceland: Hosts Stay Alive with First Win
The evening match saw Switzerland take on Iceland in Bern, with both teams under pressure after opening-day losses. The hosts rose to the occasion, delivering when it mattered most.
Highlights
Early Scare: Iceland nearly took the lead in the opening minute when Ingiborg Sigarsdóttir’s powerful shot rattled the crossbar, stunning the home crowd.
Disallowed Goal: Switzerland thought they had scored in the first half, but VAR ruled out Svenja Foelmli’s header for a foul in the buildup.
Breakthrough: Geraldine Reuteler finally broke the deadlock in the 76th minute, finishing confidently after a slick Swiss move.
Sealing the Win: Substitute Alayah Pilgrim added a second late on, her shot deflecting into the net and sending the Swiss fans into celebration mode.
Match Impact
- Switzerland’s first win of the tournament keeps their quarter-final hopes alive as they prepare for a crucial final group match against Finland.
- Iceland, with two losses, became the first team eliminated from Euro 2025.
Group A Standings After Day 5
| Team | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Norway | 6 | +2 |
| Switzerland | 3 | 0 |
| Finland | 3 | 0 |
| Iceland | 0 | -2 |
- Norway are confirmed group winners and have qualified for the quarter-finals.
- Switzerland and Finland will battle for the second spot in their final group match.
- Iceland are eliminated from the tournament.
FAQs: Women’s Euro 2025 Day 5
1. How did Norway secure their win over Finland?
Norway won 2-1 thanks to an early own goal by Finland and a late cross-turned-goal from Caroline Graham Hansen in the 84th minute.
2. What does Switzerland’s win mean for Group A?
Switzerland’s 2-0 victory over Iceland keeps their knockout hopes alive. They will face Finland next for a spot in the quarter-finals.
3. Who scored for Switzerland against Iceland?
Geraldine Reuteler opened the scoring in the 76th minute, and Alayah Pilgrim added a late second goal to seal the win.
4. Which team has been eliminated from Group A?
Iceland is the first team to be eliminated from Women’s Euro 2025 after two consecutive defeats.
5. Who are the standout players from Day 5?
Caroline Graham Hansen (Norway) for her decisive play, Anna Koivunen (Finland) for her goalkeeping heroics, and Geraldine Reuteler (Switzerland) for her crucial goal.
Conclusion
Day 5 of Women’s Euro 2025 was packed with tension, late drama, and shifting fortunes. Norway’s resilience and individual brilliance have made them the first team through to the quarter-finals, while Switzerland’s determined victory sets up a thrilling final group showdown. As the stakes rise, fans can expect even more excitement as the tournament heads into its decisive phase.
