The UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 group stages have delivered drama, heartbreak, and history as teams battle for a coveted spot in the quarter-finals. From Portugal’s valiant but ultimately unsuccessful bid to progress, to Poland’s historic debut led by captain Ewa Pajor, and Switzerland’s breakthrough into the knockout rounds, the tournament has showcased the evolving landscape of women’s football across Europe.
Portugal’s faint hopes of reaching the quarter-finals ended on July 11, 2025, with a narrow 2-1 defeat to Belgium in their final Group B match in Sion. To advance as runners-up, Portugal needed a win coupled with a significant swing in the Italy-Spain game. However, Belgium, despite already being eliminated, took control early through captain Tessa Wullaert’s goal just three minutes into the match, converting a low cross from Jill Janssens. Portugal fought back valiantly, with Telma Encarnacao equalising with only three minutes remaining in regular time. Yet, Janice Cayman struck deep in stoppage time to seal Belgium’s victory.
Portugal’s Ana Capeta had early opportunities to level the score but failed to capitalize, missing two gilt-edged chances before and just after halftime. Belgium’s Mariam Toloba had a goal disallowed for a foul on Andreia Jacinto after a VAR review, and later hit the woodwork with a header. Belgium’s Amber Tysiak also saw a stoppage-time goal ruled out for offside, but Cayman’s winner ensured Belgium finished third in Group B with three points, just behind Italy, while Portugal ended bottom with one point. Spain’s 3-1 victory over Italy in the concurrent fixture confirmed the final standings.
Meanwhile, the tournament’s host nation Switzerland celebrated a historic milestone by advancing to their first-ever quarter-final in the UEFA Women’s EURO. After finishing Group A with one win, one loss, and one draw, Switzerland’s fate hinged on their final match against Finland. Trailing 1-0 after a penalty conversion in the 79th minute, Switzerland’s resilience shone through as veteran Ana-Maria Crnogorčević came off the bench at halftime and inspired the team. Two minutes into stoppage time, Riola Xhemaili scored a dramatic equalizer off a Géraldine Reuteler cross, securing a 1-1 draw that propelled Switzerland into second place in the group. Their quarter-final opponent awaits the result of the Spain-Italy match, marking a new chapter for Swiss women’s football after previous group-stage exits in 2017 and 2022.
Poland’s journey at EURO 2025, while ending at the group stage, was historic and inspiring. Led by captain Ewa Pajor, Poland made their debut at a major international tournament and left an indelible mark. Pajor, Poland’s all-time leading goal scorer with 68 goals, was pivotal in securing qualification by netting the winning goal against Austria in the play-offs last December. Her leadership and prolific scoring record have made her a beacon of hope for Polish women’s football.
Growing up in the small town of Uniejów, Pajor’s rise to prominence was swift and remarkable. Recognized early by current Poland coach Nina Patalon, who was stunned by her skill and speed even as a young girl, Pajor has blossomed into a world-class forward. At 28, she arrived at EURO 2025 on the back of a record-breaking season with FC Barcelona, scoring 43 goals in 46 appearances across all competitions, including 25 goals and 10 assists in the league—the best individual campaign in Barcelona’s history. Pajor’s experience at Barcelona, playing alongside stars like Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí, has elevated her game and brought invaluable expertise to the Polish national team. She expressed hope that Poland’s success at the tournament will inspire more girls to take up football and help professionalize the sport domestically.
In Group D, England’s fate remains undecided heading into their final match against Wales on July 13, 2025. After a surprising 2-1 opening loss to France, the Lionesses bounced back emphatically with a 4-0 win over the Netherlands. England currently sits second in the group behind France, who have six points from two wins. To secure quarter-final qualification, England must finish in the top two of their group. A win against Wales guarantees progression and could even see England top the group depending on the Netherlands’ result against France. A draw or loss would complicate matters, potentially allowing the Netherlands or Wales to leapfrog England based on goal difference and head-to-head records. The intricate tiebreaking rules mean England’s final group game promises high stakes and tension.
Spain’s dominance was on full display in their 3-1 victory over Italy in a Group B match on July 11, 2025. The match featured a late goal from González in stoppage time, capitalizing on a cross from Alexia Putellas after goalkeeper Giuliani initially saved but could not hold the ball. Earlier, Spain’s Patri Guijarro scored a precise shot into the bottom-right corner. Italy had their moments, with Bonmatí forcing a fingertip save and Cantore creating chances, but Spain’s quality and composure proved decisive. A potential penalty for Italy was overturned after an offside call, underscoring the tight margins in the contest.
As the group stages conclude, Norway has already secured their quarter-final spot, with the knockout phase set to commence the week of July 14, 2025. Fans worldwide continue to enjoy extensive coverage of the tournament, with broadcasters like ITV and BBC in the UK, and FOX in the US providing live streams and free viewing options. The tournament’s growing popularity is reflected in the accessibility of streaming services and the increasing quality of competition on the pitch.
With the quarter-finals looming, teams like Switzerland and Norway prepare to challenge established powerhouses, while nations like Poland look to build on their breakthroughs. England faces a crucial test against Wales, and Portugal must regroup after their narrow exit. The UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 continues to captivate audiences with its blend of emerging talent, historic milestones, and thrilling football action.
