14/07/2025
Above: Record-breaking Swiss fan march. Photo: Keystone/Jean-Christophe Bott.
The group stage of the 2025 Women’s Euros has concluded and the stage is set for the quarterfinals this week. Defending champions England secured their place and will play Sweden on Thursday, whilst Spain, Germany, France, Norway, Switzerland, and Italy also booked their places in the final eight.
The group stage had it all – own goals, red cards, press conference arguments, and some standout moments on and off the pitch. Impetus Football’s Gethin Thurlow, Catherine MacKenzie, Eloise Smallbone and Hannah Chadwick break down their favourite moments from the group stage below.
Group A – Switzerland, Finland, Iceland, Norway
By Gethin Thurlow
Being lucky enough to report on a group that had the hosts in, seeing all the build up and excitement towards that first game between Switzerland and Norway was incredible. That Switzerland put such a strong first half performance in was also really special. Another highlight was the effort and resilience of Finland. Coming into the tournament with almost no eyes on them, they claimed an underdog win over Iceland in the first match and this was a well earned victory. What impressed me even more was how they played in the Norway loss and Switzerland draw. Despite the results going against them, they looked nothing like a team ranked 30th in the world and were only goal difference away from a quarter final appearance.
Final group standings:
- Norway (Q)
- Switzerland (Q)
- Finland
- Iceland
Group B – Spain, Belgium, Portugal, Italy
By Eloise Smallbone
Group B has seen some incredible performances as well as spectacular goals, particularly from Spain, who topped the group with an unbeaten record. A highlight of the group stage was Spain’s 6-2 win against Belgium, with six standout goals from five different scorers. Seeing two-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí recover from viral meningitis in time to come on as a substitute in Spain’s first game was also a highlight of the group stage. Belgium winning their final group stage game despite already being eliminated was a significant moment too. The Red Flames put up a fight against both Spain and Italy, building momentum against two top sides, and scoring twice against the tournament favourites, Spain. Hence, seeing them get their first win of the tournament was a highlight too, and was thoroughly well deserved.
Final group standings:
- Spain (Q)
- Italy (Q)
- Belgium
- Portugal
Group C – Germany, Sweden, Poland, Denmark
By Catherine MacKenzie
A group with an unexpected winner in Sweden, the standout match has to be the final game, between Sweden and Germany. Many had predicted the Germans to top the group, but an unconvincing defence following a major injury to captain Guilia Gwinn meant they finished in second. Ahead of that final game, nobody would have predicted that Sweden would dismantle Germany 4-1, but the Swedes showed their attacking power. Another highlight was the game between Poland and Denmark, which saw Poland get their first ever major tournament win, beating Denmark 3-2 including a goal from legend Ewa Pajor. Simply getting to the Euros was an amazing feat for the Poles, but getting an unlikely win on their way out will be something remembered for years to come.
Final group standings:
- Sweden (Q)
- Germany (Q)
- Poland
- Denmark
Group D – England, France, Netherlands, Wales
By Hannah Chadwick
Group D was nicknamed the group of death for a very good reason, with England the current champions, 2017 champions the Netherlands, and France, who are looking to make history and win the competition for the first time. They were joined by tournament newcomers Cyrmu. Highlights include Cascarino’s goal against the Netherlands and Pelova’s goal against France, alongside the re-emergence of English star Lauren James following injury. The Dutch said a goodbye to Danielle van de Donk who has possibly played in her last major tournament. From a Cyrmu perspective they had a good tournament considering this is their first ever major tournament and they where drawn into the most challenging group, managing to score against two world class sides in England and France. This tournament will give them something to build on and hopefully lead to more recognition back home in Wales.
Final group standings:
- France (Q)
- England (Q)
- Netherlands
- Wales
The quarter finals will be played as follows:
Norway v Italy 16th July 20:00 BST
Sweden v England 17th July 20:00 BST
Spain v Switzerland 18th July 20:00 BST
France v Germany 19th July 20:00 BST
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