Ada Hegerberg's pivotal performance propelled Norway to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Switzerland in their Women's Euro 2025 opener. The match, held in Basel, Switzerland, saw Hegerberg play a crucial role in overturning a 1-0 deficit, despite missing a penalty.

Switzerland took the lead in the 28th minute when Nadine Riesen capitalized on a loose ball, driving it past Vilde Boe Risa and in off the left post. The Swiss dominated the first half, with Geraldine Reuteler nearly scoring earlier with a shot that hit the crossbar. Norway struggled to find their rhythm in the first 45 minutes, failing to create significant chances.

However, the second half saw a revitalized Norwegian side. Hegerberg, who had been relatively quiet in the first half, stepped up to equalize in the 54th minute with a powerful header from a Vilde Bøe Risa corner. Just four minutes later, Norway took the lead when Julia Stierli, under pressure from Hegerberg, scored an own goal while trying to intercept a cross from Caroline Graham Hansen.

Despite her significant contributions, Hegerberg had a chance to extend Norway's lead in the 70th minute but sent her penalty shot wide. The penalty was awarded after Géraldine Reuteler was penalized for handball while defending against Hegerberg. Adding to the drama, Switzerland was initially awarded a penalty following Hegerberg's miss, but the decision was overturned after a VAR review due to an offside call.

Hegerberg later apologized for the missed penalty, acknowledging the nervous ending it caused for Norwegian fans. She expressed her happiness at securing the win in front of their supporters and those watching from home.

Norway's coach Gemma Grainger substituted Hegerberg off the pitch.

With this win, Norway tops their group with three points and is set to face Finland on Sunday. Finland previously secured a 1-0 victory against Iceland.