Finland is gearing up for the UEFA Women's Euro 2025, marking their fourth appearance in the tournament. Under the guidance of head coach Marko Saloranta, who took the reins in early 2023, the team is aiming to make a significant impact. Saloranta's extensive background with Finland's youth teams, having coached the U16 and U17 squads for over a decade, brings a deep understanding of the nation's footballing talent and ensures continuity between the youth and senior levels.
The Boreal Owls, as the team is known, navigated a challenging qualifying campaign to secure their spot in the Euro 2025. Drawn into a tough group with Italy, the Netherlands, and Norway, they faced stiff competition. Despite losing three of their matches and only managing one win, Finland persevered through additional rounds against Montenegro and Scotland to earn their place in the tournament. Their journey highlights their resilience and determination to compete on the European stage.
Saloranta has implemented a more progressive style of play, transitioning from a long-ball approach to a dynamic, possession-focused game. This tactical shift emphasizes quick transitions and midfield overloads, aiming to create a more fluid and attacking brand of football. This evolution is a testament to Saloranta's focus on modernizing the team's approach and instilling a tactical mentality that can challenge opponents.
Finland's squad boasts a mix of experienced veterans and emerging talents. Key players to watch include captain Tinja-Riikka Korpela, the experienced goalkeeper, whose leadership and shot-stopping abilities are crucial. Linda Sällström, the team's all-time leading scorer, brings a wealth of experience and a proven goal-scoring record. Eveliina Summanen, known for her set-piece prowess, is a vital presence in midfield. The return of Jutta Rantala, a dynamic forward, from injury is a significant boost to Finland's attacking options. Her versatility and ability to create scoring opportunities make her a player to watch.
Finland finds themselves in Group A alongside Iceland, Norway, and host nation Switzerland. Their opening match is against Iceland on July 2nd in Thun. Following that, they will face Norway in Sion on July 6th and conclude their group stage against Switzerland on July 10th in Geneva. The team's performance in these matches will determine their fate in the tournament.
While many expect Finland to exit in the group stage, Coach Saloranta is optimistic about his team's chances, believing they can secure at least two wins. He views the match against Iceland as a favorable opportunity, noting their previous positive encounter. He acknowledges Norway as a formidable opponent but expresses confidence in his team's ability to compete.
Finland's participation in the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 provides an opportunity to showcase the growth of women's football in the country. With a blend of experienced players and promising talents, and under the guidance of a forward-thinking coach, Finland aims to make a statement and leave a lasting impression on the tournament.
