Women’s Euros Group A: Norway v Finland, Switzerland v Iceland

By Gethin Thurlow and Catherine MacKenzie (06/07/2025)

Above: Reuteler celebrates scoring for Switzerland. Photo: Nick Potts / PA.

Finland 1 – 2 Norway
Team news and context:

A matchup between the two winners of the first gameday, both sides came in knowing a win would guarantee knockout stage qualification. Finland could be extremely satisfied with their deserved underdog victory over Iceland and as such only made one change, with Oona Sevenius coming in for Sanni Franssi as a more direct striker partner to Linda Sällström. Norway however will know they got away with what was an under-par performance against Switzerland but a win nonetheless. Harviken for Mjelde at centre back was their only change as they looked to keep Kosola and Sallstrom in particular quiet.

Scorers: Nystrom own goal 0-1, Sevenius 1-1, Graham Hansen 1-2

Highlights:

After Norway took the lead through an early own goal, it was Finland who took the game by the scruff of the neck and put the pressure on. A good 20 minutes of this culminated in a fantastic jumping save by Anna Koivunen to deny Norway ace Ad Hegerberg. This provided the impetus Finland needed; they went down the other end of the pitch and Oona Siren expertly picked out Sevenius who fired the ball into the top corner from the edge of box.

Above: Oona Sevenius. Photo: WEURO2025 on X.

The half time introductions of Lisa Naalsund and Signe Gaupset initially gained Norway some control, but Finland were the ones pushing for a goal after this and Fiskerstrand had to be in top form to keep the score at 1-1. Norway’s quality eventually came through, as Chelsea’s Guro Reiten had an overhead kick brilliantly saved and Graham Hansen finally got the job done, launching the ball onto the inside post almost like she was crossing it to secure qualification for Norway.

Above: Caroline Graham Hansen seals a quarterfinal for Norway. Photo: nff_landslaget on X.
Player of the match: Cecilie Fiskerstrand

It was another win for Norway where they were outplayed by the opposition, making an outfield choice for player of the match impossible. During the second half, it was only goalkeeper Fiskerstrand that stopped the scoreline from being 3 or 4-1 to Finland, which would have been a fairer representation of this Norway performance.

What next for the teams:

Knowing the maximum points anyone else in the group can get is six, Norway will be well aware that a point in the final game will win them the group, although after what we have seen so far this will not be an easy task. Finland can take heart from a spirited performance, but they will know that better finishing could have won or at least drawn this game. They are still well within control of their destiny as they face hosts Switzerland in the final game looking to secure a knockout berth.

Switzerland 2-0 Iceland
Above: Hosts Switzerland thank the fans. Photo: Florencia Tan Jun / UEFA.
Team news and context:

The biggest news was that Iceland captain Glódís Perla Viggósdóttir was fit enough to start after being withdrawn at half-time in their opening day defeat to Finland due to illness. Switzerland made two changes from their unlucky loss to Norway, with Sydney Schertenleib and Svenja Folmli in for Riola Xhemaili and Noemi Ivelj.

Iceland also made two changes to their line-up. Hildur Antonsdottir was seeing out a suspension after seeing red, replaced by Agla Albertsdottir and Hlin Eiriksdottir was replaced by Dagny Brynjarsdottir for an unknown reason.

Norway’s win earlier in the day meant that no matter the result between Switzerland and Iceland, they would top the group. The battle was therefore for the second place and the group’s last quarter-final spot.

Scorers: Reuteler 76′ 1-0, Pilgrim 90′ 2-0.

Highlights:

The first half was fairly even, the primary highlight coming from a ruled-out Iceland own goal. Whilst Switzerland looked more dangerous, neither made significant chances, and Iceland had the half’s only shot on target. Neither side showed much clinicality in front of goal.

Towards the end of the half, the match ebbed and flowed in a relatively staccato tempo due to the frequent intervention of the referee – at times it felt like an Icelandic player was permanently down needing treatment. The crowd reacted with increasing intensity; boos rang out across the stadium time and time again, particularly towards Jonsdottir, who took her time with every throw-in.

The second half began much in the same vein, with multiple free kicks on either side. One such free kick extracted a sublime save from Icelandic goalkeeper Rúnarsdóttir – who was recently Serie A goalkeeper of the season and may have just caught the eye of a number of major clubs across Europe.

Iceland took control of the game in its latter stages, having the lions share of the possession and spending most of their time in the Swiss box. A goal did come – however against the run of play, it was for the hosts. They pressed high following some point-perfect distribution from goalkeeper Livia Peng, and courtesy of some clinical passing from Lia Wälti, Géraldine Reuteler shot through Rúnarsdóttir’s legs for the 1-0.

The goal gave Switzerland the momentum and the remaining minutes were spent chasing a second goal. It finally came in the 90th minute, a stunning strike from outside the box from Alayah Pilgrim.

Player of the match: Géraldine Reuteler

Aside from scoring the goal that gave tournament hosts Switzerland a lifeline in the competition, Reuteler also made two key passes, won all of her duels and made a number of interceptions and tackles.

What next for the teams:

For Iceland, it is game over. Their last game of the tournament will be their last group game – against group leaders Norway, however even a win would not be enough. A disappointing outing for the Icelanders – in the end, they did not manage to overcome the hostile Swiss crowd.

For Switzerland, it is all to play for as they face Finland in their final group match – a win would see them qualify for a first quarter-finals in their history; a draw would bring goal difference into play, and a loss would see them join Iceland in a group-stage exit.

Moment/player of the day

For England fans who were at Wembley to experience the magic of an extra-time winner against Germany in a tournament final, little will ever compare to the noise that erupted when Chloe Kelly scored the winning goal. Although not a tournament final, one gets the feeling that Reuteler’s goal may have a similar impact: if Switzerland do escape the group, it would be seen as the turning point and the goal that made history.

Group standings:
  1. Norway – 6pts – +2 GD
  2. Switzerland – 3pts – +1 GD
  3. Finland – 3pts – 0 GD
  4. Iceland – 0pts – -3 GD
Find the rest of our Euros catch-ups here:

Group A Gameday 1: https://impetusfootball.org/2025/07/02/weuro-2025-group-a-gameday-1-review/

Group B Gameday 1: https://impetusfootball.org/2025/07/03/womens-euros-group-b-belgium-v-italy-spain-v-portugal/

Group C Gameday 1: https://impetusfootball.org/2025/07/04/womens-euros-group-c-sweden-v-denmark-germany-v-poland/

Group D Gameday 1: https://impetusfootball.org/2025/07/06/womens-euros-group-d-cymru-v-netherlands-france-v-england/

Follow Impetus on social media –

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Women’s Euros Group D: Cymru v Netherlands, France v England

By Hannah Chadwick (05/07/2025)

Above: Vivianne Miedema celebrates reaching 100 goals. Photo: Just Women’s Sports on X.

Wales 0 – 3 Netherlands
Team news and context:

Cymru are making their major tournament debut while the Netherlands are looking to add more silverware to their collection after winning the competition in 2017. Since the first meeting between the two sides, the Dutch have never conceded a goal to Cymru.

Chelsea superstar Sophie Ingle started on the bench following a return from the ACL injury left her sidelined for over a year; she is yet to have any game time. Oranje’ captain and record goalscorer Vivianne Miedema started, having been on a reduced amount of minutes since her hamstring injury and missing the final games of the WSL season for Man City.

Scorer: Miedema 45+3′, Pelova 48′, Brugts 57′

Highlights:

A well established Dutch side saw them press Cymru right from the whistle. The Welsh dealt with this press well for much of the first half, making a few chances of their own. However, Wales lacked the quality in the final pass, and a number of strong crosses were met with Oranje heads instead.

It was a struggle to spend time in the opposition box for both teams: the Dutch had most of the possession but struggled to connect in the attack while Cymru struggled to make good turnovers in the midfield. A moment of spark from Miedema saw the Oranje leading just before halftime, as her strong effort beat Olivia Clark. She is now the 10th female player and 13th overall to score 100 goals for the Netherlands. They then came out firing just after half with Van De Donk linking up with Pelova to score the second goal of the game. 

After conceding the second, the Welsh defence that had held so strong began to crumble. There was a sublime goalline clearance from Woodham and the Dutch ended the game strongly.

There was also heartbreak for Cymru as Ceri Holland was withdrawn from the field after what looked like a hamstring injury. This was the result that the oranje needed after receiving heavy criticism from the Dutch media following the announced departure of head coach Andries Jonker and subsequent rocky performances.

Player of the match: Josie Green

Although on the losing side, Welsh midfielder Josie Green established herself as one to watch as Wales continue to navigate a difficult group.

Danielle van de Donk also needs highlighting; the new London City Lionesses recruit notched two assists and was invaluable for Oranje all over the pitch.

What next for the teams:

Cymru will continue to build – their main focus on being able to constantly hold a defensive line as the games only become more challenging. They also need to see more of the ball after only having 33% possession. The Netherlands have played their “easiest” game in the group as they face an England side with plenty to prove on Wednesday.

France 2-1 England
Team news and context:

Les Bleues were without new captian Mbock following an injury picked up in training. England started with Jess Carter at left back having had an impressive game. Lauren James returned to the squad after injury and Beth Mead comes in on the right wing. Overall the two teams have meet 21 times in different competitions and friendlies with France winning a 11 of these games.

Scorers: Katoto 36′, Baltimore 39′, Walsh 86′

Highlights:

The aim for England would have been to maintain a solid attacking performance which they did with Lauren James having a shot in target in the first few minutes and then Russo finiding the back of net in the first 15 minutes. The game shifted once this goal was controversially ruled out for Beth Mead being ruled offside in the build-up.

France picked up the momentum following the disallowed goal and made it 1-0 as Katoto pouncing on Cascarino’s cross. A shaken England side quickly conceded another as Baltimore intercepted a loose pass from Bronze – again with controversy as there looked to have been a foul on England’s Alessia Russo in the build-up.

Following substitutions, England began to get back into the game in its later stages. A lapse of concentrating from the France defense meant that Walsh recieved the ball just outside the box and struck it home for her second international goal.

Player of the match: Selma Bacha

The were mutliple player who fit this category: Williamson, Baltimore, Russo. However, France’s Selma Bacha was all over the pitch, defending and attacking. She was doing what was needed for France to win the game and bring success to the side. She was showing why she deserved to be in the squad and what she is capable of.

What next for the teams:

England need to explore more midfield options, every time they receive the ball they are being shutdown. This was their downfall in this match, they were unable to constantly play the ball through the midfield. Both Stanway and Walsh had quiet games.They also need to look at their defensive options as Carter and Bronze were constantly being out paced and struggled to match their opponents. France will be on a high going into their game against the Cymru having just beaten the current champions. England need to win against the Netherlands to have any of retaining their title.

Moment/player of the day

Vivianne Miedema’s 100th goal for country was a classic, featuring a strong shot from outside the box.

Group standings:
  1. Netherlands – 3pts – +3 GD
  2. France – 3pts – +1 GD
  3. England – 0pts – -1 GD
  4. Wales – 0pts – -3 GD
Find the rest of our Euros catch-ups here:

Group A Gameday 1: https://impetusfootball.org/2025/07/02/weuro-2025-group-a-gameday-1-review/

Group B Gameday 1: https://impetusfootball.org/2025/07/03/womens-euros-group-b-belgium-v-italy-spain-v-portugal/

Group C Gameday 1: https://impetusfootball.org/2025/07/04/womens-euros-group-c-sweden-v-denmark-germany-v-poland/

Follow Impetus on social media –

Twitter (X): @impetusfootball TikTok: @impetusfootball

Instagram: @impetusfootball

WAFCON: A Must Watch

Above: Some stars of the competition posing at the WAFCON unveiling. Image: CAF Online.

By Emmanuel Faith (7/5/25).

One could rename this month of July “Women’s Football Summer” thanks to the array of ongoing captivating competitions. The Euros kicked off days ago, and the matches so far have given us a glimpse of what to expect; with powerhouses, underdogs, and great football surely to come.

Outside Europe, there are a couple other eye-catching competitions, and the one that’s grabbing attention at the moment is the Women Africa Cup of Nations, known as WAFCON.

History:

Founded in 1991 and re-christened in 1998, beyond the continental glory, the competition had also been the vehicle of World Cup qualification for the teams on the continent. 

The Super Falcons of Nigeria has been the dominant force, having won it nine times out of thirteen. In fact, only two countries have won it outside of the West African queens.

Despite the dominance, there has been a slight shift in the 20th century, with countries like South Africa ending their near-success jinx while new forces are rising in North Africa (Morocco) and South Africa (Zambia).

These four countries represented the continent at the FIFA world cup in 2023, and two of them made it to the Olympics in 2024, signaling a new era for the continent. 

Image: Super Falcons have dominated WAFCON since the early nineties. Image: Fervora on Twitter.

The Women African Cup of Nations has always been filled with fanfare and thrill laced with glitz and glamour, and if you are online, you probably have seen a lot of players grace your screen in their eye-catching attire, depicting their culture, heritage and tradition.

But Africa is beyond the glitz, they are the quality, the resilience, the tenacity, the creativity and below are the reasons why you should follow WAFCON. 

Global Spotlight:

While there is a lot of spotlight on Europeans, Africans have continued to make history and create new milestones. Until January, the most expensive women footballer in the world , Rachael Kundananji, was Zambian, as well as the second most expensive footballer, Barbra Banda .

The continent has continued to contribute to the wealth of the football world, directly and indirectly.


Above: Until January, these Zambian attackers were the first and second most expensive players in the world of women’s football. Image: NWSL.

Records:

The scorer of the fastest hat-trick in NWSL?  A Zambian. Serie A top scorer in 2023? A Malawian. Fastest brace scored in the NWSL? A Nigerian.
If you follow the UEFA Women Champions League, the National Women Soccer League and other leagues, then you will be familiar with the great exploits African superstars perform week-in, week-out.

Wouldn’t it be even more exciting to watch them in their country’s colors making their nations proud?

Early exposure to future youngsters:

The Junior FIFA competitions often give platforms to upcoming talent the world needs to embrace, and we have seen it in players like Deborah Abiodun who bloomed in 2023, and Christabel Okuchukwu who burgeoned in 2024 (and scored with her first NWSL goal in 2025). WAFCON gives you the opportunity to witness unearthed gems from the continent, while giving you the front-row seat to their potential journey. 

Image: The Moroccans celebrating after a crucial goal scored at the WAFCON 2022. Image: CAF Online.

I could keep talking about the fandom, the excitement, the football culture, the array of colours, the music, the melody and a galore of other exciting spice, but I’d end with a simple advice;

Do not miss WAFCON for any reason. The opening match between the host, Morocco and powerhouse Zambia is already setting the tone for a great tournament. You should have your alarm set already.  

Follow Impetus on social media –

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Experimental Matildas fail to solve Panama’s puzzle

Australia 0-1 Panama

by Ben Gilby (5/7/25)

Above: Australia goalkeeper Teagan Micah makes a dramatic save in today’s game with Panama in Bunbury. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

World number 56 Panama earned the greatest result in their history with this victory over a much-changed Australia side, who included four debutants, on a chilly, wet winter’s afternoon in Bunbury.

Matildas head coach Joe Montemurro made 10 changes to his starting line-up from Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Slovenia in Perth, with only Kaitlyn Torpey retaining her place. This was due to a combination of some players heading back to club football or managing their minutes.

There was an action-packed opening to this encounter as Holly McNamara escaped down the left to play a dangerous ball into the box. Yenith Bailey in goal for Panama, collided with her own defender Hilary Jaén, and looked to hyper-extend her knee as she fell to the ground under friendly fire. She had to be stretchered off in what was a sickening start. Farissa Cordoba came on in her place.

Whilst Australia had the vast majority of possession in the first half, it was Panama who largely dictated what took place. The Central American side employed an extremely physical ultra-high press and closed down space, not just for any Matildas on the ball, but also managed to largely cut off options for potential passes.

Australia has, historically, had major challenges in overcoming this sort of tactic being employed against them, and it would be the case once more in Bunbury. Panama were making this a highly transitional game, and that was far from the sort of encounter the Matildas wanted.

Key Australia midfield creators Hayley Raso and Alex Chidiac were therefore having minimal time with the ball to drive passes between defenders to set up offensive opportunities.

Above: Holly McNamara (8) reaches for the ball as Panama’s Ana Ggabriela Quintero (21) challenges. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

Arguably the most impressive player of the half was Panama’s 25-year-old attacker, Riley Tanner, who plies her trade in the USL Super League with Spokanne Zephyr. She was involved with all the Central American side’s best opportunities and linked up excellently with Marta Cox and Deysire Salazar.

With 21 minutes played, she was denied in the box by an excellent sliding block from Tash Prior after Cox played her in. Before the interval, Tanner beat Torpey along the right and advanced to the edge of the six-yard box to fire in a powerful shot that came off the angle of post and bar. She would also supply the cross that found Ericka Arauz to hit a cracking volley on the turn.

The Matildas did have their chances, and just after the half-hour mark, McNamara beat Carina Baltrip-Reyes along the right to supply another dangerous ball for Gielnik, but the striker couldn’t quite sort her feet out, and the opportunity went.

Australia had two further sights of goal on either side of stoppage time in the half. First, Jamilla Rankin pulled a high ball in from the left. Chloe Berryhill got in ahead of Baltrip-Reyes and saw her effort deflect narrowly wide at the near post.

In a bid to beat the Panama press, the Matildas looked to mix it up and go long, and four minutes into stoppage time, Gielnik was played in and saw a shot go wide of the right-hand post.

There was another injury-related blow for the visitors shortly into the second half, as they lost key offensive weapon Salazar. Australia would also feel the consequences of the physical battle as Micah collided with Panama attacker Ana Ggabriela Quintero.

Just two minutes after the latter incident, the Central Americans took the lead when Cox saw her shot repelled by Micah, only for it to fall for Sherline King to turn home on the half-volley with the Matildas’ defence slow to react.

Above: Panama goalkeeper Farissa Cordoba claims the ball under pressure from Australia’s Tash Prior (5) at the back post. Photo: Rob Lizzi for Impetus.

Australia looked to respond instantly and put together their best passing move of the match as Raso found Berryhill in the box, who played a lovely instant pass for Chidiac to hit a shot from close range that Jaén cleared off the line. Shortly after this, Micah left the field to be replaced by Chloe Lincoln.

This was just one of a raft of changes from Montemurro as he emptied the bench in a bid to both get back into the game and run his eye over potential Asia Cup squad members. It led to debuts for Adriana Taranto, Jacynta Galabadaarachi, Alexia Apostolakis, and Grace Kuilamu.

Whilst the tactics employed by Panama were not ideal for the new quartet to shine, they each produced moments of promise.

With 11 minutes of regulation remaining, Galabadaarachi threaded a lovely ball through for Taranto to hit a shot that Cordoba saved. Then, deep into stoppage time, Kuilamu crossed in from the right for Apostolakis to hit an effort that Cordoba repelled brilliantly. The rebound fell perfectly for Heyman, but due to a combination of the rapid ball movement and slightly leaning back, the Canberra United icon put the ball over the top from close range.

They say that a head coach learns far more in defeat than in victory. That will certainly be the case for Montemurro after this frustrating afternoon in Bunbury.

Panama won the tactical battle and posed a puzzle that the Matildas just couldn’t solve with the physicality and extreme high-press that they kept going throughout. Games against opponents such as the Central Americans are the ones where players need to look for something that little bit different, something out of the box. Montemurro will have discovered just which of this group of players could offer that.

Australia’s potential Asian Cup opponents will watch this game back carefully as, particularly in the group stages, they will look to adopt similar tactics to those deployed by Panama. The Matildas now have eight months to overcome such game plans.

Check out our Instagram page @ImpetusFootball for more of Rob Lizzi’s exclusive images from the game.

Teams: AUSTRALIA (4-2-3-1): Micah, Torpey, Prior, Nevin, Rankin, Chidiac, Berryhill, Raso, Murphy, McNamara, Gielnik. Substitutes used: Heyman (for Raso 63′), Taranto (for Berryhill 63′), Lincoln (for Micah 63′), van Egmond (for Chidiac 77′), Galabadaarachi (for Gielnik 77′), Apostolakis (for Torpey 86′), Kuilamu (for McNamara 88′).

PANAMA:(4-1-4-1): Bailey, Castillo, Natis, Baltrip-Reyes, Jaén, Salazar, González, Arauz, Cox, Tanner, Quintero. Substitutes used: Cordoba (for Bailey 6’), King (for Salazar 52′), Espinosa (for Natis 79′), Parris (for Jaén 79), Hernandez (for Arauz 79′), Camarena (for Quintero 79′), Montenegro (for Cox 89′).

Scorers: King 67′.

Referee: Anne Marie Keighley (NZL).

Attendance: 10,272.

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Women’s Euros Group C: Sweden v Denmark, Germany v Poland

By Catherine MacKenzie (04/07/2025)

Above: Lea Schüller celebrating her goal. Photo: DFB_Frauen1 on X.

Sweden 1 – 0 Denmark
Above: Geneva’s Avspark, setting for Denmark v Sweden. Photo: svenskfotboll.
Team news and context:

There are few ties with as much history and intrigue as Sweden taking on Denmark. The narratives are numerous: there is the fact that their most recent meeting consisted of Sweden inflicting a brutal 6-1 drubbing on Denmark, that Sweden were the tournament’s first winners (in 1984) whilst Denmark reached the 2017 final. Both early trailblazers, they have struggled to make a strong mark in more recent tournaments.

Perhaps most striking is the human element: Denmark captain Pernille Harder and her Swedish counterpart Magdalena Erikssen are life partners who are engaged to be married. However, a meeting in the group stage of the 2025 Euros was not meant to be, as Erikssen was missing due to “overload” following a long season with Bayern Munich and Sweden’s Nations League campaign. There are also Denmark’s twins: Sara and Karen Holmgaard, who both played for Everton last season – Sara recently acquired a move to Real Madrid.

Apart from Erikssen’s absence, the teams lined up largely as expected. Karen Holmgaard started in midfield for Denmark, with twin Sara on the bench.

Scorer: Angeldahl 55′

Highlights:

Barely ten minutes in, there was a stoppage for five minutes as VAR ruminated on a potential penalty for Denmark. Whilst the decision (handball) could have gone either way, that it took five minutes to decide was a source of frustration for everyone involved, and it certainly heightened the atmosphere around the stadium.

The most dangerous moment of the first half was a powerful free kick from Sweden’s Fillipa Angeldahl that produced a brilliant save from Denmark keeper Maja Bay. The second brought more chances for Sweden, and they were finally rewarded via Angeldahl. The equaliser almost came from a Harder header hitting the crossbar, but the game ebbed away with little fanfare towards the end.

Above: Filippa Angeldahl celebrates her goal. Photo: @svenskfotboll on X.
Player of the match: Filippa Angeldahl

Whilst it often feels trite to hand the player of the match label to the winning goalscorer, Filippa Angeldahl is a deserved recipient this time. She created a number of chances – particularly in the first half – and deserved a goal. Sweden’s brightest player on the day.

What next for the teams:

Given that Denmark’s last game against Sweden ended in a 6-1 rout, they can take confidence from this – they were even a Harder header away from a draw. It does leave them lagging behind in group C, but assuming Germany get the win against Poland, the hill is not too tall to climb. Sweden face Poland, which they will expect to win.

Germany 2-0 Poland
Team news and context:

It was almost inevitable that Poland’s first foray into a major tournament would start with a game against the team who have been a dominant powerhouse in Europe, winning the competition eight times. Looking at Germany’s team on the night, this power was obvious, including a front line that would cause even the most hardened defense a palpitation or two; Lea Schüller, Linda Dallman, Jule Brand and Klara Bühl were only some of the German attacking threat in the starting 11.

The star of this Poland team is undoubtedly Ewa Pajor; the electric forward was aided by Natalia Padilla and Paulina Tomasiak on the wings, both with the pace to hit on any uncharacteristically sloppy German passes. West Ham’s goalkeeper Kinga Szemik was tasked with keeping the German attack at bay.

Szemik made news by commenting on the fact that Poland will be the only nation at the tournament without a bespoke kit – telling the Guardian: “We were hoping for a tournament-specific kit, that’s standard for a major tournament. It’s part of the prestige of having qualified. All the others have a special jersey made so why are we treated differently?”

Scorers: Brand 52′, Schüller 66′

Highlights:

It will have been an aim for Poland not to concede early, but few would have expected that the first chance of the game would be for Poland. They would also force stalwart German keeper Ann Katrin-Berger into an important save mid-way through the first half.

The tournament’s most poignant moment so far came when German captain Giulia Gwinn went down and needed medical attention for several long minutes. The player who missed out on almost two years of her career with two ACL injuries looked to have suffered another major setback as she was withdrawn before half-time in tears, and it will be a major blow to Germany if the injury does turn out to be a long one.

With Guinn withdrawn, the Germans reappeared after half-time with renewed impetus. Apart from some nervy moments at the back towards the end of the game, Germany controlled it well, finally breaking through the Polish defence with a wonder-strike from Jule Brand. This was followed up 15 minutes later with a strike from Schüller as Germany sealed the three points.

Above: Germany v Poland. Photo: Bayer Leverkusen on X.
Player of the match: Klara Bühl

From putting in six key passes and creating chances to putting work in defensively and making a few important tackles, Bühl was the standout player in an otherwise quiet Germany side.

What next for the teams:

Tournament newcomers Poland can take some huge positives from the game – they stood strong in front of one of the world’s best teams on good form. They did not give away many chances or make sloppy passes; the first goal was a moment of pure brilliance from Jule Brand. Poland had their own chances, and they will take courage from that moving forward. The biggest test now behind them, they face Sweden next.

For Germany, there were a few cracks exposed. One of the tournament favourites, they have been on sparkling form of late – putting six past Scotland and scoring a lot from all areas of the pitch. However, they looked like they were missing the connections for much of the game, and they often failed to manage Poland’s physicality. Gwinn’s injury is a huge concern, and it is possible that recent results against lower-ranked teams like Austria and Scotland have hidden a bit of fragility.

Moment/player of the day

Jule Brand’s strike was a wonderful goal that will be a contender for goal of the tournament.

Group standings:
  1. Germany – 3pts – +2 GD
  2. Sweden – 3pts – +1 GD
  3. Denmark – 0pts – -1 GD
  4. Poland – 0pts – -2 GD
Find the rest of our Euros catch-ups here:

Group A Gameday 1: https://impetusfootball.org/2025/07/02/weuro-2025-group-a-gameday-1-review/

Group B Gameday 1: https://impetusfootball.org/2025/07/03/womens-euros-group-b-belgium-v-italy-spain-v-portugal/

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Montemurro & Micah: Controlling the tempo key to Matildas success

by Ella McShane (4/7/25)

Above: Matildas boss Joe Montemurro speaking to the media earlier today. Image: Football Australia.

Having had just under a year since their last major tournament at the Olympics, the introduction of new tactics and players has highlighted the depth of the current Matildas squad.

With the Asian Cup now on the horizon, Montemurro expressed his intention to provide everyone invited into camp with a chance to prove themselves. “There (are) no fringe players, everyone is up for an opportunity…the more players we can have a look at, the better it has been.”

Goalkeeper Teagan Micah offered a player’s insight into the evolving squad dynamic, stating that: “It’s been really exciting, we are all really trusting the process… inviting new faces in the camp, and everyone is really trying to buy into that plan that Joe is selling us.”

As the Matildas turned their attentions from the positives of the two games against Slovenia to the forthcoming pair of matches with Panama, Montemurro described the training sessions as “positive” and “intense…with a few sore bodies”. Off the pitch, the Australia boss is focused on the cohesive development of positively nuanced “attitudes” and “principles” with the ultimate goal of building “a top team”.

Above: Teagan Micah shares her views ahead of tomorrow’s game with Panama in Bunbury. Image: Football Australia.

On his debut series as Matildas head coach, Montemurro adopted a high possession approach against Slovenia. Reviewing the approach he said: “There is always going to be some teething problems, and we saw the change from game one to game two in terms of the timing and the understanding of when and where…its all part of us wanting to be a top team…we need to be comfortable with the ball.”

When looking at adapting this to a Panama side, Montemurro expressed the intention to develop and build on what the squad achieved tactically in the Slovenia series, but then also emphasised that Panama is “a different team…they will not be pressing us all over the pitch like Slovenia. There will probably be a bit of a hiccup in continuity…I don’t think it’s going to be as continuous from game one to game two,” in comparison to the Slovenia series.

Panama’s width and tempo were highlighted as the threats that will need to be overcome by both Micah and Montemurro. Australia’s boss identified the fact that “If we allow them to play through and expose us out wide, they could be a threat,” with Micah highlighting that the team needs to “control the tempo and play our standards.”

Montemurro made his intention to rotate the squad clear, stating, “There will be a lot of changes, but I hope to see the same sort of patterns. There is a real purpose in this camp to make sure we give many opportunities and we look at different combinations”.

With tomorrow’s game taking place at Hands Oval in Bunbury, 169km south of Perth, Montemurro highlighted the importance of his side playing in a non-state capital, stating: “It is great that the game is being spread to some regional areas.”

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Women’s Euros Group B: Belgium v Italy, Spain v Portugal

By Eloise Smallbone (03/07/2025)

Above: Italy celebrate their win. Photo: Azzuri_En on X.

Belgium 0 – 1 Italy
Team news and context:

As the second day of the tournament started, the stage was set for Belgium and Italy.  The two sides both won their last game before Euro 2025, with Belgium beating Greece 2-0 in a friendly, and Italy winning 4-1 against Wales in the Nations League.  Italy had the more impressive route to Euro qualification, topping the group above favourites Netherlands and perennial Euros challengers Norway. 

However, the Red Flames have major international tournament experience on their side, with Janice Cayman, Tessa Wullaert and Laura Deloose starting in this game – all of whom have played at previous major tournaments.  This match also marked Elisabet Gunnarsdottir’s first game in charge of Belgium at a major international tournament, and in her short reign, Belgium have already beaten England and pushed Spain close.

Scorer: Caruso 44’

Highlights:

Overall, Belgium arguably had the better of the first half, with five attempts, and two very good chances just before Italy took the lead.  However, Arianna Caruso’s goal was a special moment of the game, which followed some impressive build-up play from Manuela Giugliano, which led to Caruso’s strike.  In the second half, Belgium couldn’t build up the momentum that they seemed to have in the first half, and Italy were able to slow them down enough to secure the 1-0 victory. 

Above: Caruso celebrates her match-winning goal. Photo: Azzuri_En on X.
Player of the match: Arianna Caruso

For her impressive match-winning strike.

What next for the teams:

This is a monumental win for Italy as they are now in a strong position in the group, with games against Portugal and Spain to come.  However, it leaves Belgium with a hill to climb as they face Spain – the reigning World Champions – on Monday.

Spain 5 – 0 Portugal
Above: Alexia Putellas celebrates her goal. Photo: SEFutbolFem on X.
Team news and context:

Montse Tomé selected a strong team for Spain’s opener, with Ester González starting. Aitana Bonmatí started the game on the bench, after only being discharged from hospital four days ago, and Vicky López was brought in to replace her. Spain were also missing first choice goalkeeper Cata Coll, with deputy Adriana Nanclares given the nod.

Portugal were still without Barcelona superstar Kika Nazareth, who is in the middle of returning from injury.

The players wore black armbands as they honoured Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, and tributes filled the stands of Portuguese fans.

Scorers: González 2′, 43′, López 7′, Putellas 41′, Martin-Prieto 90+3′

Highlights:

The first half was a display of how effective Spain’s attacking players are and how dominant they are on the pitch, even without Ballon d’Or winner Bonmatí in their starting 11.  Mariona Caldentey stood out for how she created chances in the build-up to two of Spain’s four goals in the first half and ended the game with two assists. 

Despite going into half-time 4-0 down, Portugal managed the threat that Spain carried much better in the second half, and they showed a strong mentality.  González was a strong threat to the Portuguese defence for the time she was on the pitch. 

Player of the match: Esther González

Two goals, the first of which came before two minutes were on the clock. Impressive on the press and relentless in possession, a thorn in Portugal’s side across the game.

What next for the teams:

This result puts Spain firmly in the Group B drivers’ seat, ahead of Italy on goal difference.  It leaves Portugal with a hill to climb, however they have faced their strongest test in the group already. 

Moment/player of the day

Spain provided an impressive display of goals to choose from as a favourite of the day, however Putellas’ goal in the 41st minute was sublime and exemplified why she is considered one of the best in the world.

Bonmatí entering the pitch in the 81st minute was also a hugely significant moment of the second matchday, after recovering from meningitis.  There had been a lot of speculation over whether she would play in Spain’s opener, or even in the group stage. 

Group standings
  1. Spain 3 pts +5 GD

    2. Italy 3 pts +1 GD

    3. Belgium 0 pts -1 GD

    4. Portugal 0 pts -5 GD

    Find the rest of our Euros catch-ups here:

    Group A Gameday 1: https://impetusfootball.org/2025/07/02/weuro-2025-group-a-gameday-1-review/

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    “I’m Just Happy to Play My Part”: Siemsen Embraces Her Matildas Comeback

    By Isabelle Campbell 3/7/25

    Above: Remy Siemsen. Photo: Cat Bryant for Impetus

    After some time in the periphery of the national team, Remy Siemsen is making the most of her opportunity to return to the Matildas setup under new head coach Joe Montemurro.

    The Australian forward has already shown her value in the side’s second match against Slovenia and is looking ahead to the upcoming friendlies against Panama.

    Back in the green and gold, Siemsen is showing signs of growth, maturity, and a hunger to make the most of the chance she’s been given.

    “Honestly, I just wanted to enjoy myself out there. I haven’t been in the national team consistently for the past couple of years and I just really wanted to enjoy myself and play my natural game and not get in my head. I’m just happy to play my part with the team and really grateful to Joe for allowing me that opportunity to play.”

    Though the focus is on enjoyment and taking things as they come, Siemsen is aware of the bigger opportunities on the horizon, specifically the chance to be part of the Matildas squad for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup on home soil in 2026. But she’s also trying to stay grounded and focused on the present moment.

    “Definitely got my sights set on that Asian Cup selection. I was obviously so close to making that World Cup squad and sadly missed out on that. So my sights are set on that, but I just want to focus on camp to camp, game to game, and just continue building and developing every time I come in.”

    A factor in her current comfort and confidence is the presence of familiar faces, particularly midfielder Amy Sayer, a current and a long-time teammate both at club and international levels. Their chemistry on the field has been years in the making.

    “Amy and I actually go even further back than Sweden, we’ve played together since we were probably 12 on and off. I really enjoy playing with Amy. She’s a really smart footballer. We really understand how each other plays.

    “I was there when she was coming back from her ACL injury and I saw all the hard work that she put in and all the devotion that she put in to get back. stronger, fitter, and you can see that in the way that she’s playing. She’s really confident and I’m just really proud of her and all the efforts that she’s put in.”

    Siemsen’s path back into the Matildas has been shaped in large part by her experiences overseas. After time in England’s Women’s Super League, she made the move to Sweden, where the league’s tactical focus and competitive nature have helped push her game to new levels.

    “I’ve been really happy there. It’s a very competitive league. Every week, you don’t know who could win on game day, so you can look at the ladder right now and anyone could be in the top place in the next few weeks.

    “It’s a really good brand of football. It’s very tactical. I feel like I’m developing and growing and I’m just in a really good professional environment that’s developing me and putting me in good step for national team selection.”

    Central to Siemsen’s renewed belief is the support she’s felt from coach Joe Montemurro, who handed her a start in just her second match back in the green and gold. A show of faith that forced her to rise to the occasion.

    “It’s been amazing having Joe come in. He’s already instilled so much belief, not just in the starting players, but also the entire squad. I’m a confidence player and he’s definitely instilled some confidence in me, and I think that was evident in the way that I played in the last game.

    “I just felt belief from him, belief from the players around me, and it just helped me relax a little bit on the field and just knowing that he backs me, that I could back myself.

    Still searching for her first international goal, Siemsen remains hungry but focused on her role in the team and taking pride in the success of teammates like Holly McNamara, who was rewarded for her persistence with a debut goal in the opening match against Slovenia.

    “Obviously, being an attacker, you always want to be scoring the goals and getting your name on the score sheet, but for me, it’s just as important to play my role as well as get assists or just work really hard for the team. Eventually that goal will hopefully come and I’m not not putting too much pressure on myself, but I was incredibly happy for Holly. She’s put in the hard work, she’s come back from multiple injuries and come back really strong.

    “It would be lovely to get a goal and hopefully that’s coming maybe in the next two games, that would be nice, but not putting too much pressure on it. I just want to enjoy my football and do my role for the team.”

    Though it’s only two games into her return, it already feels like the start of a new era for Siemsen. As Australia gears up to face Panama, she’s determined to seize every opportunity and prove her worth on the international stage.

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    Women’s Euros Group A: Finland v Iceland, Switzerland v Norway

    By Gethin Thurlow (02/07/2025)

    Above: Switzerland celebrate scoring against Norway. Photo: UEFA.

    Iceland 0 – 1 Finland
    Team news and context:

    A Scandinavian derby to kick off the Euros, both teams were looking to do something they couldn’t manage in England – win a game. For each, it was perhaps the greatest chance at this, so with regional supremacy and records on the line, it mattered a lot more than just the three points. In terms of team news, Iceland stuck with their expected team, which meant star midfielder Dagny Brynjarsdottir started on the bench. For Finland, legendary striker Linda Sallstrom made the starting eleven.

    Above: Katariina Kosola scores for Finland. Photo: UEFA.

    Scorers: Kosola 0-1

    Highlights:

    In a frantic first half for Finland, it was Runarsdottir in the Icelandic goal who stood out and made several strong saves, particularly denying Finnish winger Kosola. When Iceland did attack, Koivisto made a brilliant sliding block in the 40th minute to keep the score at 0-0.  In the second half, the highlight was easily Kosola’s wonder-strike, whipping the ball into the top corner from the left edge of the box.

    Player of the match: Katriina Kosola

    There could only be one. The left winger was a constant thorn in the Icelandic side in the first half, and their lack of ability to address that issue at half time ultimately cost them the game.

    What next for the teams:

    For Finland, it gives them a massive boost, and they will be thinking already of reaching a first quarter final since 2009. Iceland however will rue the chance to win a game, and instead look to the final two games against Norway and Switzerland knowing at least four points will be required to see them through the group stages. 

    Switzerland 1 – 2 Norway
    Team news and context:

    Hosts Switzerland knew they had an uphill challenge awaiting them, having been beaten twice by Norway in the Nations League this year. New Chelsea and Man City signings Silvia Peng and Iman Beney made a young looking Swiss starting team. For Norway, it was a predictable lineup, featuring that brutal front four of Reiten, Maanum, Graham Hansen and Hegerberg.

    Scorers: Riesen 1-0, Hegerberg 1-1, Stierli own goal 1-2

    Above: Nadine Riesen scores for Switzerland. Photo: UEFA.
    Highlights:

    Switzerland’s attitude right from the off. Taking the crowd’s support and expectations in their stride and playing aggressively from the first minute, committing bodies forward. They were eventually rewarded with a goal, even if it was a bit scrappy. Whatever Gemma Grainger said at half time clearly worked, as Norway came out rejuvenated and ready for a physical battle, completely unlike the first half. This didn’t stop the Suisse fight though, and they gave it their all right until the death.

    Player of the match: Geraldine Reuteler

    It’s unorthodox to give POTM to the losing side, but on this occasion Switzerland genuinely did outplay Norway and there were no Norwegians who stood out. It might not have gone her way in the end with a penalty given away and a miss, but she was at the centre of everything good in that blissful first half for Switzerland.

    What next for the teams:

    Whilst the result didn’t go their way, Switzerland can come away with so much pride at how they played, dominating the first half and fighting valiantly in the second. Considering Norway are probably their toughest opponents; they can look ahead with hope of getting out of the group still despite the result. For Norway, they got lucky to remain in the game and the goals were not the highest quality, but they got the result on that’s all that matters. They will be aiming to win the group and avoid that Spain quarter final matchup.

    Moment/player of the day:

    The incredible passion and character shown by Switzerland throughout the entire game – particularly when they scored the games’ opening goal.

    Group standings:

    Norway 3 points

    Finland 3 points

    Switzerland 0 points

    Iceland 0 points

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