By Emma Petzoldt, Year 12
This summer, from the 2nd to the 27th of July, we got to witness the 14th edition of the UEFA Women’s EURO here in Switzerland. Sixteen countries competed across thirty-one games throughout the country, including Geneva, where five matches were played. This was a record-breaking tournament on and off the pitch, with 106 goals scored, the highest total in women’s EURO history, and 29 out of the 31 matches being sold out with a record-breaking attendance of 657,291 spectators in total.
For the first time, Switzerland got to host the Women’s Euro and exceeded expectations. Stadiums were consistently filled, as well as fan zones across the country, and the atmosphere was amazing. This tournament not only showcased the quality of women’s football but also its increasing popularity.
The format – sixteen teams divided into four groups with the top two progressing to the knockout stage – worked perfectly and ensured that every match counted. Countries such as Wales and Poland made their first appearances, and even though they did not progress to the quarter finals, they surely proved why they deserved to be there. In the group stages, we saw high-scoring games, including Spain’s win over Belgium with a final score of 6-2, and host nation, Switzerland, also provided its fans with constant entertainment, qualifying thanks to a dramatic 92nd-minute equalizer.
In the quarter finals, we experienced England’s incredible comeback to Sweden, leveling the score from 0-2 to 2-2 in just 2 minutes, with young player of the tournament Michelle Agyemang scoring the equalizer. Not only this, but it was followed by one of the strangest penalty shootouts seen in football history. 5 of the 14 penalties were scored across the two nations, with the rest being saved or missed, but England finally came out on top. Switzerland was unable to beat World Cup winners Spain after holding the score of 0-0 for 65 minutes. Furthermore, the semi-finals did not disappoint. England were led for 96 minutes by Italy, but then scored, and later won in the last minute of extra time with a rebound goal from winger Chloe Kelly. Spain, on the other hand, continued to show consistency and excellence, beating Germany. The final in Basel was just as compelling. Spain opened the scoring, only for England to equalise through Alessia Russo, taking the match into extra time and later penalties. England emerged victorious, becoming back-to-back European Champions.
Standout players, including Aitana Bonmati, named Player of the Tournament, and Michelel Agyemang, awarded Young Player of the Tournament, exemplified the talent showcased at the tournament. Hannah Hampton, whose incredible saves were crucial for England’s success, also played a key role in securing the European title.
Beyond the field, the tournament marked significant steps for the women’s game. The total prize money increased from €16 million to €41 million. This directly rewarded players, encouraging clubs to support them, and raising the overall professionalism of women’s football. The tournament has also promoted and brought women’s football to a new level of popularity, and encouraged young girls to play football, with plans such as the “Here to Stay” aiming to double female participation to 80,000 players by 2030 in Switzerland. The economic impact further highlights its success, generating over CHF 205 million in economic activity across the country.
Overall, the Women’s EURO 2025 was a game-changer in the growth of the sport. Record attendances, compelling matches, and exceptional talent demonstrated that women’s football is both competitive and increasingly popular.
