The group stage draw for the Women’s Euro 2025 has set up a fascinating tournament, with reigning champions England facing a tough road ahead. While some teams have received relatively favorable draws, others will have to navigate fiercely competitive groups to advance
Group A: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Finland
Statistically, Group A stands out as the weakest in the tournament. Switzerland, as the host nation, will be delighted with the outcome of the draw, having successfully avoided the likes of England, the Netherlands, and Sweden. The group is evenly balanced, and while it lacks a clear powerhouse, this opens the door for close contests and unpredictable results.
Norway will be seen as the favorites to top the group, boasting a squad brimming with talent and experience. Players such as Guro Reiten, Frida Maanum, and Caroline Graham Hansen provide attacking flair, while Ada Hegerberg, a former Ballon d’Or winner, adds firepower up front. Norway’s depth is further strengthened by the presence of key players from Manchester United, including Elisabeth Terland, Celin Bizet, and Lisa Naalsund.
For Switzerland, home advantage could play a crucial role, and they will aim to capitalize on their familiarity with the venues. Iceland and Finland, while capable of causing an upset, will need to produce their best football to challenge for a top-two finish
Predicted qualifiers: Norway, Switzerland.
Group B: Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Ital
Spain, the reigning World Cup champions, are the clear favorites to dominate Group B. The team has gone from strength to strength in recent years, and their fluid, possession-based style of play remains a nightmare for opponents. Spain’s squad includes the Ballon d’Or holder, Aitana Bonmatí, whose creativity and vision in midfield will be pivotal.
Portugal enters the tournament in excellent form, enjoying an impressive 12-match unbeaten streak. They are a team on the rise, and their confidence will give them a fighting chance of securing a spot in the knockout rounds. Belgium, meanwhile, proved their resilience in the qualifying playoffs, eliminating Greece and Ukraine. Their ability to perform under pressure could make them a dangerous side in this group.
While all four teams bring their own strengths, Spain’s dominance is likely to shine through, with Italy narrowly edging out the competition for second place.
Predicted qualifiers: Spain, Italy.
Group C: Germany, Poland, Denmark, Sweden
Group C is arguably one of the strongest in the tournament, featuring three teams ranked among the world’s top 12. Germany, traditionally one of the giants of women’s football, will enter the competition with a point to prove after their shocking group-stage exit at the 2023 World Cup. With a squad filled with quality, Germany will be determined to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite.
Denmark, led by Bayern Munich forward Pernille Harder, will be eager to build on their 2017 success, when they reached the final. Their attacking threat and cohesive team play make them strong contenders in this group.
Sweden, perennial contenders in major tournaments, bring a wealth of experience but face questions over whether their ageing squad can still compete at the highest level
Poland, the group’s underdogs, will need to produce something special to challenge the three favorites. While they may struggle to advance, they have the potential to frustrate stronger opponents and influence the group standings.
Predicted qualifiers: Germany, Sweden.
Group D: France, England, Wales, Netherlands
Group D has rightly earned its reputation as the “group of death,” featuring three of the tournament’s strongest teams alongside debutants Wales. For England, the reigning champions, the challenge is clear: they must hit top form from the very first match.
The Netherlands, former European champions, bring a blend of experience and attacking prowess. They will pose a significant threat to both England and France, making this group incredibly difficult to predict.
Wales, on the other hand, enter the tournament with nothing to lose. As debutants, they will relish the opportunity to test themselves against Europe’s best. While their chances of advancing are slim, their clash with England promises to be a thrilling encounter, full of emotion and intensity.
Ultimately, England and the Netherlands are expected to progress, but this group could produce surprises along the way.
Predicted qualifiers: England, Netherlands.With the group stage set, the Women’s Euro 2025 promises to be a thrilling tournament full of drama, excitement, and high-quality football. While some teams have been handed favorable draws, others will need to navigate tough groups to reach the knockout rounds. As always, the unpredictability of tournament football means surprises are inevitable, and fans can look forward to a summer of unforgettable moments.
