The Women’s Euro 2025 in Switzerland has delivered on its promise of drama, skill, and unpredictability. With sixteen teams battling across eight Swiss cities, the tournament has not only highlighted established powerhouses but also brought new contenders into the spotlight.
As the group stage closes and the knockout rounds beckon, the landscape is shifting. Spain, England, and France have carried the weight of expectations, but the rise of Sweden, the resilience of Italy, and the energy of host nation Switzerland have added compelling twists.
This article examines who is exceeding expectations, which favourites are holding firm, and why this year’s championship is captivating fans and analysts alike.
Spain: A World Champion’s Burden and Opportunity
Spain entered Euro 2025 as the reigning world champions and the consensus favourite to lift the trophy. Women’s soccer betting markets have consistently reflected their dominance, with some bookmakers offering odds as short as 4/5 for a Spanish victory.
Their group stage performance has justified this faith, as Spain swept through Group B with a perfect record—three wins, fourteen goals scored, and only three conceded.
This attacking prowess, anchored by stars like Esther Gonzalez and Alexia Putellas, has made them the team to beat. However, Spain has never won the European title. Past inconsistencies at the Euros linger as a potential stumbling block. The pressure is immense, but so is the opportunity for this talented squad to cement their legacy.
England: Defending Champions Facing Real Tests
England arrived in Switzerland as the defending European champions, having triumphed on home soil in 2022. Their journey has not been without turbulence. After an opening defeat to France, England rebounded with a commanding 4-0 win over the Netherlands, restoring belief in their title defence.
Bookmakers currently list England among the top contenders, with odds ranging from 9/2 to 7/1, reflecting both their pedigree and recent inconsistencies.
The Lionesses’ big-game experience is unmatched, with consistent top-four finishes in recent World Cups and European Championships. Yet, their path to the final is complicated by a challenging group and the pressure of expectations. England’s resilience will be tested as the tournament progresses, and their ability to adapt may determine whether they retain their crown.
France: Consistency Without a Crown
France remains one of the most talented teams in Europe, but a major international title has eluded them. Their odds to win Euro 2025 hover around 5/1 to 6/1, placing them firmly among the favourites. France’s group stage campaign included a statement 2-1 victory over England, showcasing their ability to rise to big occasions.
Despite their strong squad and recent podium finishes, France’s challenge has often been turning potential into silverware. Their refreshed lineup and tactical discipline have impressed analysts, and their consistent performances signal that this could be a breakthrough year. The French team’s journey is a testament to the importance of depth and adaptability in tournament football.
Sweden: The Scandinavian Surge
Sweden has emerged as both a favourite and a dark horse, depending on perspective. With odds at 9/1 to 14/1, they are respected but not universally expected to win. Sweden’s group stage was a showcase of efficiency and resilience, as they topped Group C with three wins, eight goals scored, and only one conceded.
Their emphatic 4-1 victory over Germany sent a clear message: Sweden is not to be underestimated. This Scandinavian squad combines tactical discipline with attacking flair.
Their recent results have fueled optimism among supporters. While history has seen Sweden fall just short in major finals, their current form suggests they are ready to challenge the established order.
Germany & Italy: Tradition Meets Ambition
Germany’s legacy in women’s football is unmatched, with eight European titles and a reputation for tournament excellence. However, their odds have lengthened to 10/1 or more, reflecting a transitional phase for the squad.
Germany finished second in Group C, suffering a heavy defeat to Sweden but advancing to the knockout stage. Analysts describe this year’s team as a blend of youth and experience, searching for a new identity while retaining their competitive edge.
Italy, meanwhile, has embraced the “dark horse” label with gusto. Their historic win over Belgium and a strong qualifying campaign have fueled talk of a deep run. Italy’s tactical sophistication and team chemistry have impressed observers, and their ability to upset favourites adds intrigue to the tournament’s narrative.
Switzerland & Wales: the Power of Home and Hope
Host nation Switzerland has embraced the dual role of underdog and home favourite. Despite a mixed Nations League campaign, the Swiss rebounded with a crucial win over the Czech Republic, and their home advantage echoes the successes of previous hosts.
Switzerland’s odds remain long—around 80/1—but the energy of local supporters and the unpredictability of tournament football make them a team to watch.
Wales, a newcomer to the European Championship, has already made history with their first-ever win at this level. Their spirited play and determination have captured imaginations. This team proves that belief and teamwork can unsettle even the most established opponents. These stories remind fans why the Euros remain fertile ground for surprises.
Opportunity in the Knockout Rounds
As the Women’s Euro 2025 enters its decisive phase, the field is wide open. The favourites—Spain, England, and France—must navigate the pressure of expectation and the tactical challenges posed by rising contenders. Sweden’s momentum, Germany’s pedigree, and Italy’s ambition all threaten to disrupt the established hierarchy.
For Switzerland and Wales, every match is a chance to inspire and rewrite history. Fans and analysts alike should watch for tactical innovations, emerging stars, and the intangible factors—resilience, chemistry, and belief—that so often decide major tournaments. The coming weeks promise not only a battle for the trophy but also a celebration of the depth and unpredictability that define women’s football at its bes