The Countdown to Euro 2025 Begins: Group-Stage Draw Sets the Stage for a Thrilling Summer
The road to Euro 2025 is officially underway, and the excitement is palpable as the tournament draw has unveiled the paths for 16 nations vying for European glory next summer in Switzerland. With the stakes higher than ever, fans are already buzzing about the matchups, the storylines, and the potential for history to be made.
Since the competition’s inception in 1982, only five nations have lifted the coveted trophy. Sweden, the Netherlands, and England have each claimed the title once, with the latter two achieving their victories under the guidance of Sarina Wiegman. Norway has won twice, while Germany has dominated the competition with an incredible eight championships.
England’s Lionesses made history in 2022, capturing their first major silverware with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Germany at Wembley Stadium. Meanwhile, reigning world champions Spain, fresh off their 2023 World Cup triumph over England, are strong contenders to secure their first European title this summer.
Adding to the stakes, the prize money for Euro 2025 has more than doubled compared to the previous edition. The 16 teams will share €41 million ($43 million), with each federation guaranteed at least €1.8 million and required to allocate at least 30% to players. The eventual champions could earn up to €5.1 million, making this the most lucrative Women’s Euros in history.
The tournament will run from July 2 to July 27, promising a month of thrilling football as Europe’s best battle for supremacy. With so many intriguing storylines and potential surprises, let’s dive into the group-stage breakdown and predictions.
Group A: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Finland
Host nation Switzerland will be looking to break their streak of failing to reach the quarterfinals of a major tournament on home soil. Inspired by the Netherlands’ 2017 victory and England’s 2022 triumph, both achieved on home turf, Switzerland hopes to follow suit in 2025. However, they face stiff competition in Group A.
Norway, a team with a storied history that includes world, European, and Olympic titles, will be eager to reclaim their former glory. Despite recent struggles, their star-studded lineup featuring Guro Reiten, Frida Maanum, Ada Hegerberg, and Caroline Graham Hansen makes them a formidable opponent.
Meanwhile, Finland and Iceland, both veterans of the Euros, will be looking 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 determined to make a statement this summer.
- Must-See Match: Switzerland vs. Norway, July 2. This opening clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to set the tone for the tournament.
- X Factor: Switzerland’s young stars, including Noemi Ivelj and Sydney Schertenleib, could be game-changers on home soil.
Predicted Finish: Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, Finland.
Group B: Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Italy
World champions Spain are aiming for their third major trophy in a row, hoping to add the 2025 Euros to their 2023 World Cup and 2024 Nations League titles. With Ballon d’Or winners Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas leading the charge, Spain is the team to beat.
Italy, Belgium, and Portugal round out the group, each with their own ambitions. Italy is eager to reestablish themselves as a European powerhouse, while Belgium and Portugal, both dark horses, will look to upset the balance and make deep runs in the tournament.
- Must-See Match: Spain vs. Italy, July 11. This clash could determine the group’s top spot and promises to be a tightly contested battle.
- X Factor: Can Spain make it three major titles in a row?
Predicted Finish: Spain, Italy, Belgium, Portugal.
Group C: Germany, Poland, Denmark, Sweden
Germany, under new manager Christian Wück, is in a rebuilding phase but remains a strong contender. Denmark and Sweden, both former European powerhouses, will be looking to challenge Germany’s dominance, while Poland, making their tournament debut, could be the group’s surprise package.
- Must-See Match: Germany vs. Sweden, July 12. Two former champions clash in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
- X Factor: Poland’s Ewa Pajor finally gets her moment on the big stage.
Predicted Finish: Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Poland.
Group D: France, England, Wales, Netherlands
Defending champions England face a tough group as they look to retain their title. The Netherlands and France, both top contenders, will provide stiff competition, while debutants Wales will aim to make their mark on the tournament.
- Must-See Match: England vs. Netherlands, July 9. A high-stakes clash between two recent champions.
- X Factor: Wales’ historic debut adds an extra layer of intrigue to the group.
Predicted Finish: England, Netherlands, France, Wales.
With over 700,000 tickets projected to sell and a massive digital audience expected, Euro 2025 is set to be the most-watched Women’s Euros in history. The stage is set for a summer of unforgettable football, and the countdown has officially begun!
Originally Written by: Emily Keogh
