The 2025 UEFA Women`s Euro tournament is set to begin in Switzerland, featuring 16 of Europe`s premier national teams. England, the reigning champions, will be defending their title, while Spain enters the competition sharing the billing as a leading contender. Traditional European football powers like Germany, France, and Sweden face stiff competition from emerging sides, ensuring that anything is possible in the unpredictable world of tournament football.
While there`s plenty of discussion about which teams are the top favorites, potential dark horses, or long shots, the true picture will emerge once the group stage matches commence. Recent performances, the depth of squads, and other factors will ultimately determine which team proves to be the strongest in Europe. Based on the current outlook, here`s how the 16 participating teams rank:
1. England
Under the guidance of head coach Sarina Wiegman, the Lionesses hold the top spot as defending champions at the start of the tournament. Despite key international retirements from Mary Earps and Fran Kirby, and the absence of Millie Bright, the squad still features many core players from the victorious 2022 campaign, positioning them for another deep run. Although there are some questions surrounding the goalkeeping situation, this provides an opportunity for Hannah Hampton to step up and shine.
2. Spain
The victors of the 2023 FIFA Women`s World Cup are strong favorites and expected to challenge England for the trophy. Possessing perhaps the world`s best midfield, featuring Ballon d`Or winners Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas, Spain combines superb technical ability with relentless attacking play. However, Bonmati`s recovery from meningitis creates uncertainty about her availability in the early stages, as does goalkeeper Cata Coll`s battle with tonsillitis. This situation could potentially see Claudia Pina taking on a starting role rather than her usual impact substitute position.
3. Germany
Adding another layer of complexity to the favorite debate is Germany. The runners-up from the 2022 Euro and bronze medalists at the 2024 Olympics are generally in solid form heading into the championship. They will be without Lena Oberdorf due to injury and Alex Popp has retired from international duty, but a revamped attack, including Lea Schuller and dynamic wingers, has proven effective against defenses, making them a formidable opponent throughout the tournament.
4. Sweden
Consistently a threat in major tournaments, Sweden remains a challenging team to face despite facing some injury concerns. The ankle injury sidelining Fridolina Rolfo for at least the first group match is a significant blow, as are the absences of promising talent Rosa Kafaji and goalkeeper Zecira Musovic, who is on leave during her pregnancy. However, the squad benefits from considerable depth across the roster, and Stina Blackstenius enters the tournament fresh off winning the Champions League and scoring the decisive goal.
5. France
It`s impossible not to be captivated by the electrifying performances of players like Kadidiatou Diani and Marie Antoinette Katoto, while Sandy Baltimore and Salma Bacha are formidable on the counterattack. These players ensure France remains a threat throughout the competition. However, France`s historical struggles with a `tournament mentality` have often hindered them, and the narrative persists, especially with veterans Wendie Renard and Eugenie Le Sommer omitted from the squad.
6. Netherlands
Having won the Euro in 2017, the Dutch team has since experienced a slight dip compared to other top teams globally. While their 2017 triumph is memorable, there`s considerable uncertainty surrounding their recent form and starting lineup, placing them outside the clear favorites but too strong to be considered dark horses. Vivianne Miedema appears to have overcome fitness issues in recent tune-up games, while Lineth Beerensteyn`s status remains a question mark.
7. Norway
It seems surprising to rank a team with an attack featuring Ada Hegerberg, Caroline Graham Hansen, and Guro Reiten outside the top five, but here they are. While their offensive potential rivals any team in Europe, boasting strong set-piece capabilities and explosive transitions, this squad has a history of underperforming in significant international tournaments.
8. Italy
Sometimes a team represents a potential `reach for the stars` pick, and Italy comfortably fits into the middle of the pack. They possess sufficient tactical flexibility, and with the experience of veteran Cristiana Girelli, the team has the ability to adapt their shape and approach, potentially creating disruptive chaos for opponents. They will miss the creativity of Giulia Dragoni, but Cecilia Salvai could provide another option in midfield.
9. Denmark
The Danish team often rallies around the exceptional attacking talent of Pernille Harder. The squad excels in quick transitions and delivering crosses, and their defense is bolstered by NWSL player Isabella Obaze. However, like many teams, an excessive reliance on one key player can be risky, and Denmark`s tendency for turnovers during slower build-up play could prove problematic.
10. Iceland
This team is typically well-organized and defensively resolute. Led by Glódís Viggósdóttir, the center-back has been managing a persistent injury since May. The team has also struggled to convert close matches into decisive wins. Forward Sveindís Jónsdóttir is a bright spot in attack and known for her long throws, but if they manage to reach the knockout stage, they could face significant challenges.
11. Belgium
Belgium brings notable long-shot potential to the tournament. Placed in a challenging group with Italy, Spain, and Portugal, they will need to embrace the pressure that comes with a major championship. They will rely on captain Tessa Wullaert for counterattacks, while young midfielder Marie Detruyer is key to their midfield play.
12. Switzerland
It`s natural to anticipate that the host nation will perform well, especially with an exciting young prospect like 18-year-old forward Sydney Schertenleib to cheer for. A breakout performance from her could inspire both the team and the country. However, losing multiple players to ligament tears before the tournament suggests they might face a difficult start.
13. Portugal
The team experienced four consecutive losses in the Nations League and had concerns about the availability of Kika Nazareth. Tournament football offers a fresh start, and Portugal has shown they can be a tricky opponent in high-stakes matches. Nazareth`s return from injury and her creative flair on the pitch could provide the spark needed to change their fortunes.
14. Poland
Making their debut in the tournament, Poland will be significantly boosted by forward Ewa Pajor. She is undoubtedly one of the world`s top strikers in front of goal, having netted 25 goals for Barcelona. With rising talent like Paulina Tomasiak also in the squad, over-reliance on a single player might not be a major issue, but their very limited experience in major tournaments could present a significant hurdle.
15. Wales
These debutants enter the Euros with an attitude of having nothing to lose and everything to gain, fueled by an unshakeable belief. Captain Angharad James credits this shift in mentality to head coach Rhian Wilkinson, a sentiment echoed by veteran Jess Fishlock. If Sophie Ingle is truly ready to return from injury and be tested on the pitch, the Welsh Dragons have the potential to cause some surprises.
16. Finland
The team is accustomed to playing disciplined defense and utilizing set pieces or counterattacks to impact games. However, there are uncertainties surrounding lingering injuries to defensive standout Natalia Kuikka, who has seen limited minutes due to injury management. The absence of Elli Pikkujämsä in the defense and Jutta Rantala in attack adds further challenges to team chemistry as the tournament begins.
Dominic Ashworth