Switzerland is gearing up to host the UEFA Women's Euro 2025, marking their third appearance in the tournament after debuting in 2017. As hosts, they automatically qualified and find themselves in Group A alongside Norway, Iceland, and Finland. This presents a significant opportunity for the Swiss to advance to the knockout stages for the first time in their history.
The team is coached by Pia Sundhage, a well-respected figure in women's football, who previously managed the United States women's national team. Sundhage's experience and tactical acumen will be crucial as she aims to guide Switzerland through a potentially favorable group stage. While Norway are considered the favorites, Switzerland will be aiming for a top-two finish to progress.
Key players for Switzerland include captain Lia Wälti, a midfielder who recently won the UEFA Women's Champions League with Arsenal. Wälti's leadership, technical skills, and experience at the highest level make her a vital asset. Veteran forward Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic brings a wealth of international experience, holding the record for most caps (168) and goals (74) for the national team. Noelle Maritz is another experienced player in the squad, with 128 appearances for Switzerland.
Sundhage favors a 3-5-2 formation, emphasizing width and encouraging the team to play proactively. The wing-backs push high up the pitch, while the back three provides defensive stability. The team aims to maintain a compact shape, control the central areas, and press aggressively when needed.
Switzerland has recent experience against two of their Group A opponents, having played Iceland and Norway in the Nations League. They drew twice with Iceland but lost twice to Norway, one of which was controversial due to a perceived lack of fair play. This adds extra motivation for the Swiss squad heading into the tournament.
The 23-player squad includes goalkeepers Nadine Böhi, Elvira Herzog, and Livia Peng; defenders Luana Bühler, Viola Calligaris, Noelle Maritz, Nadine Riesen, and Julia Stierli; midfielders Noemi Ivelj, Sandrine Mauron, Géraldine Reuteler, Coumba Sow, Smilla Vallotto, Lia Wälti, Leila Wandeler, Riola Xhemaili, Meriame Terchoun, and Sydney Schertenleib; and forwards Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic, Alisha Lehmann, Svenja Fölmli, Iman Beney, and Alayah Pilgrim.
Switzerland will kick off their Euro 2025 campaign against Norway on July 2nd in Basel. They will then face Iceland on July 6th in Bern and Finland on July 10th in Geneva. With home advantage and a favorable group, Switzerland has a great chance to make history and reach the knockout stages for the first time.
