The opening match of Euro 2025 saw Norway defeat host nation Switzerland in a thrilling and dramatic encounter at St. Jakob-Park in Basel. Despite a strong first-half performance and a deserved lead, Switzerland succumbed to a determined Norwegian comeback, leaving the home crowd stunned.
Switzerland began the match with high energy, spurred on by a raucous home crowd. Their efforts paid off in the 28th minute when Nadine Riesen capitalized on a loose ball, sending a shot off the left post and into the net. The Swiss maintained their intensity, dominating possession and creating several opportunities. Geraldine Reuteler came close to extending their lead, but her shot struck the crossbar. The first half concluded with Switzerland in a commanding position, seemingly on track for a memorable victory.
However, Norway emerged a transformed side after the interval. Ada Hegerberg, Norway's star forward, ignited the comeback 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 inadvertently directed a Caroline Graham Hansen cross into her own net. The game then descended into further chaos.
In the 70th minute, Norway were awarded a penalty, but Hegerberg sent her shot wide of the post. Moments later, Switzerland thought they had won a penalty of their own, only for the decision to be overturned by VAR due to an offside in the build-up. Despite the setback, Switzerland pressed for an equalizer, but Norway defended resolutely to secure the 2-1 victory. Ingrid Engen made a crucial block in the 90th minute to deny Beney a late equalizer.
The match was filled with drama and talking points, including Hegerberg's 50th international goal, her missed penalty, and the overturned penalty decision. The game also marked a historic moment as Norway became the first team to defeat a host nation in their opening match since the introduction of the group stage in 1997. Switzerland's starting lineup included two 18-year-olds, Iman Beney and Noemi Ivelj, a rare occurrence in Women's Euro finals. The attendance of 34,063 set a new record for a women's game in Switzerland.
Despite the loss, Switzerland can take heart from their first-half performance and the contributions of their young players. However, they will need to regroup quickly as they face Iceland in their next match. Norway, meanwhile, will be buoyed by their comeback victory and look to build on this momentum as they progress through the tournament. The match in Basel was a thrilling start to Euro 2025, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of women's football.
