2022 UEFA Women’s Euros Group D Preview

While every group has its treasure trove of storylines, Group D is arguably one of the more intriguing collections of teams.

From the tournament favourites of France to the dark horses of Iceland, there are more reasons than one to be excited about this group.

France

The French had a straightforward qualifying where they topped the group with seven wins and one draw, scoring 44 goals and conceding zero.

France are a side brimming with talent, the best of which is their attack: Kadidiatou Diani, Sandy Baltimore, and Marie-Antoinette Katoto, all options for Corinne Diacre.

Together at PSG, they combined for 35 goals, with Katoto scoring 18, all of which were from open play, the most in Division 1 Féminine.

However, below a sparkling surface are the almost tangible tensions within the squad after Amandine Henry and France’s all-time scorer Eugénie Le Sommer were omitted.

Diacre’s decision has led to many scratching their heads, including some players in the squad who showed their support for Henry when celebrating their goal against the Netherlands.

So, the question for France will not be one of talent but whether they can overcome the internal struggles to finally etch their name into the history books.

Iceland

Despite having one of the smaller talent pools, Iceland have become a familiar face among the sporting powerhouses in what is their fourth successive appearance at the Euros.

They had a steady qualifying in which they finished second behind Sweden with six wins, one draw, and one loss to the leaders, although a lot has changed since then.

Most notably, they have a new head coach, Thorsteinn Halldórsson, who was appointed in January 2021 and has done an excellent job, but this will be his biggest challenge yet.

With a good mix of veteran experience and exciting youth Iceland will certainly be a team to keep an eye on.

Italy

Milena Bertolini’s side qualified with eight wins, one draw, and one loss to group winners Denmark, scoring 37 goals and conceding five.

Her Italian side attacks with freedom and has several exciting players to watch, including the deadly Cristina Girelli.

The 32-year-old may not have had as productive a season this year at Juventus as last, but she still poses a considerable threat in front of goal.

They may not have a lot of plaudits, but with expectations elsewhere, don’t be surprised if the Azzurri find themselves in contention for a chance to win.

Belgium

Rounding off the group is the lowest-ranked team Belgium, who finished first in their qualifying, winning seven matches and losing one to Switzerland.

Few have more experience than head coach Ives Serneels, who has held his post for over a decade, although some argue they have stagnated under his guidance as of late.

It will certainly be a tough ask for the Belgians to progress with a lot hinging on the in-form striker Tessa Wullaert and Tine De Caigny, who scored 12 goals in qualifying.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt