The 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro is actively unfolding, with 16 nations concluding their group stage participation and eight teams preparing for the quarterfinal phase. The host country, Switzerland, has offered a captivating setting for the initial rounds, characterized by favorable weather and impressive Alpine scenery. The group stage witnessed a substantial number of goals, reaching a historic high (89) for the tournament.
The local team also displayed unexpected performances, whereas the current champions, England, experienced a shaky start before regaining composure with a notable showing, shifting attention to France. However, many believe Spain is the team to beat. If you’re following team progression, refer to our initial assessments.
The elimination stages introduce a fresh set of obstacles, effectively restarting the competition and influencing our evaluations. As teams are removed from contention, they will naturally gravitate toward the lower end of the standings, raising the question of who occupies the top spot.
Here’s the current ranking of the 16 teams:
1. Spain (+1)
While they entered the tournament on par with England, they’ve boosted their position after a group stage dominance achieved without their primary goalkeeper, Cata Coll, and limited time on the field for Ballon d’Or recipient Aitana Bonmati. Midfield strategist Alecia Putellas dictates the game, and NWSL’s Esther Gonzalez currently tops the tournament’s Golden Boot chase with four goals.
2. France (+3)
The team has captured significant attention and potentially dispelled any doubts regarding their “tournament performance,” highlighted by group victories over England, Wales, and the Netherlands. Les Bleues delivered numerous exceptional performances, including contributions from goal scorers Marie Antoinette Katoto and Sandy Baltimore, alongside Salma Bacha and Sakina Karchaoui who supported Baltimore in dominating the left, while Delphine Cascarino is a regular threat on the right side.
3. England (-2)
Experienced a notably underwhelming start against France, exhibiting uncertainty and disarray for much of the match, which extended to the sidelines with limited tactical adjustments from manager Sarina Wiegman. This might have served as a catalyst, as the Lionesses strengthened throughout the group stage, spearheaded by Ella Toone, Alessia Russo, and Georgia Stanway on the field.
4. Sweden (–)
They are highly effective at adapting to their opponents, demonstrating their ability to capitalize on crucial moments. Despite previous games where numerous opportunities were missed, they effectively utilized their chances against Germany to secure the group lead and pose a formidable challenge in the next stage.
5. Germany (-2)
The 2024 Olympic bronze medalists showed resilience with a shift in focus and determination to overcome a difficult start. Already missing Lena Oberdorf, recovering from an ACL injury, the team faced another setback with captain Giulia Gwinn’s MCL injury on the first day. Substitute Carlotta Wamser played a key role, but her suspension due to a red card in the quarterfinal now requires manager Christian Wück to devise a new strategy.
6. Norway (+1)
Despite securing three wins and advancing to the quarterfinals, Norway remains a perplexing team. Ada Hegerberd and Caroline Graham Hansen have shown connection, but Own Goal shares the lead in scoring. There were high expectations for a dominant display, especially considering their opponents. Instead, their performance suggests equality, emphasizing the need for greater efficiency in the upcoming rounds.
7. Italy (+1)
Italy did enough to qualify for the quarterfinals and gain a higher rank. Despite expectations for a more decisive showing, they consistently provide just enough to remain competitive. They nearly fell short against a determined Portugal and scored against Spain, but the overall impact lacked conviction.
8. Switzerland (+4)
Switzerland is generating excitement with their recent performances. Their solid showing against Norway, followed by a shutout against Iceland, led to a quarterfinal spot. Lia Walti is central to a young squad, dictating the tempo as an Arsenal player.
9. Netherlands (+3)
The Dutch faced a tough road to the knockout stages. Despite Vivianne Miedema’s return, a coach’s decision kept her out of the final match due to injury, which affected their final performance against France. Their elimination ends their magical 2017 Euro title, and manager Andries Jonker’s departure seems likely.
10. Finland (+6)
They rivaled Switzerland for a spot in the final eight, but they ultimately fell short. Finland showed quality, with goals from Katariina Kosola and Oona Sevenius and a solid defense. Despite their efforts, they were eliminated on the last day of group play.
11. Poland (+3)
Poland might wish to be in the knockout rounds, but their debut was still memorable. They marked a historic milestone for a nation on a major stage. Their lack of experience was evident, but they played with pride on their final day, winning their first Euros match against Denmark.
12. Belgium (-1)
Belgium left with a memorable win on the final day of group play. Despite their elimination, they even scored twice against Spain in a major loss. Manager Beta Gunnarsdóttir has brought refreshing ideas to the roster, offering a foundation for future progress.
13. Portugal (–)
The inconsistency in Portugal’s Group B games resulted in their elimination. A major loss to Spain, following tributes to Diogo Jota, a close draw against Italy, and a loss to Belgium highlighted their campaign. More was expected, and their elimination might signal a change from coach Francisco Neto.
14. Denmark (-5)
Denmark struggled offensively despite having a star striker in Pernille Harder. The lack of creativity highlighted their tournament struggles, leading to their last-place finish and casting doubt on their future direction.
15. Wales (–)
Wales performed respectably against the Netherlands initially, but they declined as the tournament went on. Jess Fishlock scored a historic first Euro goal, but they were eliminated from a tough group.
16. Iceland (-6)
Iceland delivered a disappointing performance in a group where progression was possible. The team rarely looked threatening, despite a flurry of goals at the end.
