What to expectfrom Euro 2025’s opening week fixtures

The 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro kicks off in Switzerland this July, and the opening week promises compelling drama from the start. With group-stage matches spread across eight cities, fans will witness powerhouse clashes, underdog stories, and early signals of who may rise to the top.

From reigning champions facing tough challengers to host nation storylines and tactical showdowns, the first round sets the tempo for the tournament.

All eyes will be on how teams handle the pressure of early fixtures, especially with narrow margins for error in such a condensed group format.

Below is a full preview of what to expect during Euro 2025’s highly anticipated opening week. We’ll examine the marquee matchups, analyze key team dynamics, and spotlight the players who could influence outcomes from day one.

Whether it’s a young core stepping up or established stars reasserting dominance, opening week could redefine expectations across every group.

High-Stakes Openers in Group A and D

Two of the tournament’s most important storylines unfold on day one and day four—Switzerland vs. Norway and France vs. England. Both pairings could set the tone for their respective groups and create ripple effects that shape knockout paths.

Host Nation Eyes a Statement Start

Switzerland begins their campaign against Norway at St. Jakob-Park in Basel. It’s not just about three points. It’s about proving they can handle the weight of hosting while competing at a continental level. With fresh talent like Smilla Vallotto and Iman Beney, Switzerland is a developing side—but inexperience could become an issue against Norway’s seasoned attack.

Norway, led by Ada Hegerberg, aims to reestablish themselves after a disappointing 2022 UEFA campaign. Their strength lies in forward depth and midfield discipline. If Switzerland can’t hold possession, Norway could dominate transitions. Opening night tension aside, this is a must-watch clash of composure versus emotion.

A Group of Death Starts With Fireworks

Few openers carry as much tactical weight as France vs. England, set for Zurich. England, the reigning champions, face perhaps the most difficult group of the tournament. With the Netherlands and Wales in play, Group D is unforgiving.

France has size, pace, and technical control. England, despite losing some veterans to retirement, retains cohesion and tactical sharpness. With Keira Walsh anchoring midfield and Lauren James likely the creative fulcrum, the Lionesses will try to control tempo early. France, conversely, thrives in moments of chaos and counters. This match may hinge on set pieces or a single moment of brilliance.

The loser here doesn’t face elimination, but the pressure mounts instantly with the Netherlands looming. It’s early, but it could be decisive.

Emerging Powerhouses in Group B and Group C

While Group D grabs the spotlight, Spain, Germany, and Sweden begin their campaigns with opportunities to build momentum. These teams are tournament favorites for a reason—and their opening fixtures offer a chance to flex depth and strategy.

Spain Looks to Control Its Narrative

Spain vs. Portugal could be lopsided on paper, but Portugal shouldn’t be underestimated. Spain is fresh off a World Cup title and seeking the treble—World, Nations League, and Euro. Their ball retention, technical passing, and attacking overloads make them hard to defend against.

Women’s soccer odds for this fixture highlight how sportsbooks are beginning to reflect tactical matchups and team form more than just historical rankings. Alexia Putellas remains the symbol of this golden era, but emerging names like Salma Paralluelo could be decisive. Portugal will likely sit deep, defend narrow, and attempt to strike on the break. Their best bet lies in disrupting rhythm, but if Spain scores early, it may open the floodgates.
This match matters not just for Spain’s qualification—it’s about sending a warning to the rest of the tournament.

Germany’s Redemption Arc Begins

Few teams enter Euro 2025 with more to prove than Germany. Runners-up in 2022, they start against Poland, a side with less pedigree but growing ambition. Germany’s structure remains disciplined. Their defensive spine is among the best in Europe, while attacking variety keeps opponents guessing.

Poland’s strength lies in cohesion rather than individual brilliance. If they can keep the match level until late, it could get nervy for Germany. That said, anything less than a convincing win would raise eyebrows.
This group also includes Sweden and Denmark, two sides capable of taking points off anyone. A strong start here is essential.

Underrated Matchups and Teams to Watch

While marquee games dominate headlines, there’s value in watching how mid-tier teams handle pressure. These fixtures may lack historic weight but often provide some of the tournament’s best drama.

Iceland vs. Finland: More Than an Opener

The very first game of the tournament—Iceland vs. Finland—doesn’t have top-tier billing, but it’s one of the most balanced matchups. Iceland’s defensive rigidity and Finland’s fluid build-up play could clash in fascinating ways.

The latest soccer news has focused on how both teams have evolved tactically since their last international cycles, with Iceland investing in youth and Finland improving ball progression in midfield. Iceland has physicality on their side, while Finland’s strength lies in link-up play and overlapping fullbacks. Both teams likely see this match as their best chance at three points. Expect intensity from the whistle.

Wales Makes a Rare Tournament Debut

Wales vs. Netherlands rounds out the week’s action. For Wales, it’s a historic moment—their first appearance in a major women’s tournament. That energy may be enough to unsettle the Dutch, who are rebuilding in the post-Vivianne Miedema era.

The Netherlands will still be favorites, but their consistency has dipped. Wales can capitalize on set-piece opportunities and defensive lapses. A result here could be one of the shocks of the round.

Tactical Themes and Format Implications

Beyond individual matchups, several broader patterns will emerge during the first week. The tournament format—four groups of four—means a single early misstep can threaten a team’s path to the quarterfinals.

Increased substitution depth and squad rotation will play roles, especially for teams like Germany and Spain managing veteran players. Climate and travel across Swiss cities could also influence performance. Bern and Geneva may offer cooler temperatures, while Sion and Thun could test endurance with altitude and heat.

Defensive shape and transition speed are proving essential across women’s tournaments globally. Teams unable to adjust quickly may find themselves vulnerable early. By the end of week one, we’ll have clearer indicators of which sides are adapting tactically—and which are already under pressure.