The countdown to next summer’s Euro 2025 has officially begun, with the tournament draw revealing the path to glory for the 16 nations competing in Switzerland for the prestigious title of European champions.
In the history of the competition dating back to 1982, only five nations have claimed the trophy. Sweden, the Netherlands and England have each won once — the latter two under the guidance of Sarina Wiegman. Norway has lifted the title twice, while Germany has dominated with an incredible eight victories.
The Lionesses made history on home soil in 2022, claiming their first major silverware with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Germany at Wembley Stadium. Meanwhile, reigning World Champions Spain, fresh off their triumph over England in the 2023 World Cup final, are strong contenders to secure their first European title this summer.
The stakes are higher than ever, with prize money for Euro 2025 more than doubling compared to the previous edition. The 16 teams will share €41 million ($43m), with each federation receiving at least €1.8m and required to allocate at least 30% to players. The eventual champions stand to earn up to €5.1m.
The tournament will run from July 2 to July 27, promising a thrilling month of football as Europe’s best battle for supremacy, and there are plenty of storylines waiting to be written and surprises in store. How will it all shape up? Emily Keogh has made a rapid assessment of the groups to predict how Euro 2025 will play out.
GROUP A:
Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Finland
Host nation Switzerland will be aiming to break their pattern of failing to reach the quarterfinals of a major tournament on home soil.
With the Netherlands’ 2017 victory and England’s 2022 triumph in their home countries as inspiration, Switzerland hope the pattern will repeat in 2025. However, to reach that stage, they must overcome Norway, a team with rich history, including World, European, and Olympic titles. Though Norway has struggled in recent years, star players like Guro Reiten, Frida Maanum, Ada Hegerberg and Caroline Graham Hansen will be determined to return to glory.
Finland and Iceland, both veterans of the Euros, will also be eager to improve their records. Finland reached the semifinals in 2005, but has struggled to progress beyond the group stage since. Iceland, consistently appearing in the Euros since 2007, has only made it past the group stage once. Both teams will be driven to better their performances on the grand stage.
Overall, it’s a tough group to call with all four teams in similar positions on field and off it.
MUST-SEE MATCH: Switzerland vs. Norway, July 2
Norway and Switzerland are no strangers to sharing the spotlight on the international stage, having been drawn together in the same group at the 2023 World Cup as well. Their previous encounter ended in a 0-0 stalemate, but the stakes are higher here as they kick off the 2025 Euros in what promises to be a thrilling opener. With passionate fan bases and an electric atmosphere, this clash is set to be one of the tournament’s standout moments.
UEFA has committed to making this edition of the Women’s Euros the most memorable yet and with over 700,000 tickets projected to sell, the tournament is expected to shatter attendance records. Additionally, a massive digital audience is anticipated, with over 500 million online views forecasted, making it the most-watched Women’s Euros in history. UEFA also promises to match the men’s Euros in terms of facilities, technology, and analytical support, elevating the tournament’s overall quality and professionalism.
The opening game will set the tone for what is shaping up to be a landmark event in women’s football. With Norway’s attacking flair and Switzerland’s home advantage, fans can expect an unforgettable start to a competition that aims to redefine the standards of the game.
