The UEFA Women`s Euro 2024, hosted in the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland, has unfolded with a delightful blend of expected dominance and thrilling upsets. As the tournament marches towards its crescendo, only four teams remain standing, poised to contest the semifinals. These final contenders represent a fascinating microcosm of modern women`s football: two established powerhouses and two teams that have, against various odds, punched well above their perceived weight class. The stage is now set for an epic showdown, culminating at St. Jakob-Park in Basel, where history awaits.
The Unyielding Favorites: Spain
Having lifted the Women`s World Cup trophy two years prior, Spain arrived in Switzerland with an undeniable aura of champions, and they have done little to dispel that notion. La Roja have navigated their path to the semifinals with the kind of clinical efficiency that borders on the serene, seemingly untroubled by any opponent. Their offensive machinery has been nothing short of spectacular, netting 16 goals while conceding a mere three, a testament to their balanced play.
Leading their charge is Esther Gonzalez, whose four goals have beautifully complemented her NWSL top-scorer status. Not to be outshone, the legendary Alexia Putellas has also contributed three goals, showcasing why she remains one of the sport`s most influential figures. While some might suggest their journey has lacked truly “stiff tests” – a luxury afforded to teams of their caliber, perhaps – Spain`s collective and individual brilliance ensures they remain the overwhelming favorites. Their passage to the final four is not just a statistical achievement, but a clear statement of intent: this title, they believe, is theirs to lose.
The Reigning European Champions: England
As the defending European champions, the Lionesses of England carry a significant burden of expectation. Their journey through the tournament has been marked by both moments of dazzling brilliance and flashes of vulnerability, making them a compelling watch. Their attacking prowess is undeniable, a well-defined strength evident in their 13 goals scored by a diverse cast of 10 players, including both seasoned veterans like Lauren James and emerging talents such as Michelle Agyemang.
England will undoubtedly enter their semifinal clash against Italy as strong favorites. However, their campaign has not been without its defensive inconsistencies. A 2-1 defeat to France in the group stage and a nervy 2-2 draw against Sweden in the quarterfinals exposed a susceptibility to physical play and moments of defensive disorganization. For a team of England`s stature, such chinks in the armor are notable and could prove costly against the elite opposition that awaits them. Their ability to tighten the screws at the back will be as crucial as their offensive might in their pursuit of consecutive European titles.
The Resilient Giants: Germany
Germany, with a staggering eight European titles to their name, arrived in Switzerland with a mixed recent history. From a triumphant run to the 2022 Euro final to a surprising group stage exit at the subsequent World Cup, followed by an Olympic bronze medal, their form has been a rollercoaster. This inconsistency has continued in the current tournament, largely attributable to a challenging injury list that includes captain Giulia Gwinn and key defenders Franziska Kett and Sarai Linder.
Adding to their woes, center-back Kathrin Hendrich`s red card means she will miss the semifinal, leaving Christian Wuck`s side significantly short-staffed against Spain. Despite these considerable hurdles, Germany’s inherent fighting spirit and resilience cannot be underestimated. Players like midfielder Jule Brand offer offensive punch, while goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger’s heroics in the penalty shootout against France showcased their unwavering resolve. To battle back and force penalties despite being reduced to 10 players early in their quarterfinal speaks volumes about their pedigree; they are far from a team to be easily dismissed.
The Surprising Underdogs: Italy
If there`s one team that embodies the spirit of an underdog story this Euro, it is Italy. Le Azzurre`s presence in the semifinals is, by all accounts, a significant surprise, particularly given their historical record of not winning a knockout stage match at the Euros since 1997 and never advancing past the World Cup quarterfinals. This summer, however, they have genuinely lived up to their billing as a team on the ascendancy.
Their impressive 2-1 quarterfinal victory over Norway, a World Cup winner and traditional regional heavyweight, was a clear statement of intent. Cristiana Girelli`s brace not only secured their semifinal berth but also launched her directly into the Golden Boot race. Facing England, one of the world`s premier teams, presents arguably their toughest test yet. However, Italy`s overwhelming performance against Norway`s defense and their own growth throughout the tournament suggest they are ready for the challenge. This truly historic run has the potential for an even deeper impact, as they vie for their first Euro final appearance since 1997, and potentially, their first major trophy ever.
The Semifinal Showdowns: A Clash of Narratives
The semifinals promise two distinct, yet equally compelling, footballing narratives. On Tuesday, England will face Italy, a clash between a team seeking to assert its reign and a rising force looking to defy expectations. This match will be a crucial measuring stick for Italy`s progress against a top-tier opponent known for its aggressive attack but also its defensive vulnerabilities.
The following day, Spain and Germany will lock horns. This encounter pits the tournament`s most dominant side against a historically decorated team currently battling significant challenges. It`s a test of Spain`s assumed invincibility versus Germany`s enduring resolve and tactical acumen, even when short-handed. Both matches are set to deliver high-stakes drama, propelling two teams closer to the ultimate prize in Basel. The stage is brilliantly set for a memorable conclusion to what has already been an unforgettable Women`s Euro.
Dominic Ashworth