The UEFA Women`s Euro 2025 tournament is set to begin in Switzerland, featuring 16 leading European national teams. As the defending champions, England are expected to be the team to beat, while Spain also arrives as a strong contender for the trophy. Traditional powers like Germany, France, and Sweden face competition from emerging squads, highlighting the unpredictable nature of knockout football.
Discussions abound regarding which teams are genuine favorites, potential dark horses, or unlikely winners. However, the true picture will become clear once the group stage matches commence. Factors such as recent performance, squad strength, and tactical flexibility will ultimately decide which team emerges as the continent`s best. Below is a current assessment of how the 16 participating teams are ranked:
1. England
Under the guidance of head coach Sarina Wiegman, the Lionesses enter as the reigning champions and are deservedly positioned at the top of this initial ranking. While key players like Mary Earps and Fran Kirby have retired internationally, and Millie Bright is absent, the squad retains a strong core from their victorious 2022 campaign, capable of another strong showing. Although there are some uncertainties, particularly concerning the goalkeeping role, this presents an opportunity for players like Hannah Hampton to make their mark.
2. Spain
The winners of the 2023 FIFA Women`s World Cup are strong favorites expected to challenge England for the title. Boasting potentially the world`s best midfield, featuring Ballon d`Or recipients Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas, Spain combines technical superiority with fluid, relentless attacking play. However, questions linger regarding Bonmati`s availability in the group stage due to a medical condition (recovering from meningitis), as well as goalkeeper Cata Coll, who is dealing with tonsillitis. This tournament might see Claudia Pina step into a starting role rather than her usual impact sub capacity.
3. Germany
Adding complexity to the favorite dynamic is Germany. The finalists in 2022 and bronze medalists at the 2024 Olympics are generally in solid form entering the competition. They will miss Lena Oberdorf due to injury and the retired Alex Popp, but a revamped attack led by Lea Schuller and dynamic wingers has proven highly effective against defenses, making them a formidable opponent throughout the tournament.
4. Sweden
Always a significant threat in major tournaments, Sweden remains a challenging side despite some injury concerns. A significant setback is the ankle injury sidelining Fridolina Rolfo for at least the opening group match. The absence of rising star Rosa Kafaji and goalkeeper Zecira Musovic (on leave due to pregnancy) also impacts the squad. Nevertheless, the team possesses considerable depth. Striker Stina Blackstenius arrives fresh off winning the Champions League, where she scored the decisive goal.
5. France
It`s impossible not to be impressed by the electrifying performances of players like Kadidiatou Diani and Marie Antoinette Katoto, while Sandy Baltimore and Salma Bacha are potent counterattacking weapons. These talents ensure France will be a threat throughout the competition. However, a long-standing issue with France`s `tournament mentality` continues to cast a shadow, and the omission of veterans such as Wendie Renard and Eugenie Le Sommer from the squad suggests they haven`t entirely overcome past narratives.
6. Netherlands
Having won the Euro in 2017, the Dutch team has experienced a slight dip in standing compared to other global top teams since then. While their 2017 triumph is memorable, recent form and uncertainty over starting lineups place them just outside the top tier of favorites, yet they are too strong to be considered dark horses. Vivianne Miedema appears to have put fitness concerns behind her in recent Euro warm-ups, though Lineth Beerensteyn`s status remains questionable.
7. Norway
It seems counterintuitive for an attack featuring talents like Ada Hegerberg, Caroline Graham Hansen, and Guro Reiten to be outside the top five rankings, yet here they are. While their offense, boasting set-piece expertise and explosive transitions, can compete with any in Europe, this squad has a history of underperforming in major international tournaments.
8. Italy
Every ranking needs a team that could potentially surprise, and Italy finds itself firmly in the middle of the pack. They possess sufficient tactical flexibility, and with the experienced Cristiana Girelli, the team can adapt its shape to introduce a challenging level of unpredictability in matches. The absence of Giulia Dragoni will be felt, costing them some creativity, but Cecilia Salvai could provide an alternative option in midfield.
9. Denmark
Denmark rallies around Pernille Harder`s elite attacking abilities and excels in quick transitions and crossing. Their defense is bolstered by NWSL player Isabella Obaze. However, like many teams overly reliant on a single star, excessive dependence on Harder could lead to problems, particularly if Denmark struggles with turnovers during slower phases of play.
10. Iceland
This team is typically well-organized and defensively solid. Led by centerback Glódís Viggósdóttir, who has managed a persistent injury since May, the squad has found it difficult to convert tight matches into convincing victories. Forward Sveindís Jónsdóttir is a positive force in attack and known for her long throws. However, if they manage to reach the knockout rounds, they may face significant challenges.
11. Belgium
Belgium has strong `long-shot` potential. Placed in a challenging group alongside Italy, Spain, and Portugal, they will need to embrace the pressure inherent in a major tournament. Their counterattacks will heavily rely on team captain Tessa Wullaert, with young midfielder Marie Detruyer orchestrating play.
12. Switzerland
It`s natural to hope that the host nation performs well in a tournament, especially when they have an exciting young talent like 18-year-old forward Sydney Schertenleib to support. A breakthrough performance from her could energize both the squad and the country. However, losing multiple players to ligament tears just before the tournament begins suggests they might face a difficult start.
13. Portugal
The team experienced four consecutive Nations League defeats and anxiously awaited news regarding the availability of Kika Nazareth. Tournament football offers a fresh start, and Portugal has shown previously that they can be a tricky opponent in high-pressure situations. Nazareth`s return from injury, bringing her flair to the pitch, might be the spark that changes their fortunes.
14. Poland
Making their debut in the tournament, Poland will be significantly powered by forward Ewa Pajor. She is undeniably one of the world`s top strikers, having scored 25 goals for Barcelona. With Paulina Tomasiak also raising her profile, potential over-reliance on Pajor might be less of an issue. Nevertheless, their very limited prior tournament experience could present a significant hurdle.
15. Wales
These debutants arrive with nothing to lose and everything to gain, stepping into the Euros with remarkable self-belief. Captain Angharad James credits this shift in mentality to head coach Rhian Wilkinson, a sentiment echoed by veteran Jess Fishlock. If Sophie Ingel is indeed ready to return from injury and be tested on the pitch, the Welsh Dragons could potentially spring some surprises.
16. Finland
This team is known for its disciplined defense and ability to utilize set pieces or counterattacks to impact games. However, questions remain regarding lingering injuries to defensive star Natalia Kuikka, whose minutes have been limited by injury management. The absence of Elli Pikkujämsä from the backline and Jutta Rantala from the attack creates further challenges for team chemistry as the tournament commences.
Adrian Whitmore 
Benedict Kingsley