England Aim to Defend Women’s Euro Title as Spain Enter 2025 Tournament as Favourites

The final will be held in Basel on July 27, where Europe's best will vie for continental glory.

By DTD- On Jun 26, 2025

London – With the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 set to kick off in Switzerland on July 2, defending champions England remain hopeful of retaining their crown, but face stiff competition from Spain, who enter the tournament as favourites following a string of international triumphs.

Spain, currently reigning World Cup and Nations League champions, are tipped at 2/1 by bookmakers to lift the trophy, followed by England at 4/1, with traditional powerhouses Germany and France both at 5/1.

The Lionesses’ 2022 triumph, sealed by Chloe Kelly’s extra-time goal in the final against Germany at Wembley, sparked a surge in interest and investment in women’s football in England. Since then, the Women’s Super League (WSL) has continued its rise, helping produce a new generation of emerging talent.

Spain, meanwhile, boast not only recent silverware but also a deep talent pool drawn from their increasingly competitive domestic league, dominated by Barcelona — although the Catalan giants’ shock Champions League final defeat to Arsenal this season served as a reminder of vulnerabilities.

Challenging Groups Await Europe’s Best

Host nation Switzerland, led by veteran Swedish coach Pia Sundhage, open the tournament in Group A against a motivated Norway team eager to erase memories of their 8-0 thrashing at the hands of England at Euro 2022. Iceland and Finland, both well-drilled sides, complete the group.

Group B sees favourites Spain drawn alongside dangerous underdogs Italy, Belgium, and Portugal — all capable of upsets. Italy’s recent improvements and Belgium and Portugal’s steady rise could pose challenges for the Spanish.

Group C is a battleground featuring Germany, Sweden, Denmark, and tournament debutants Poland, who will rely heavily on Barcelona striker Ewa Pajor, one of the standout names to watch.

England face a testing Group D alongside France, the Netherlands (2017 champions), and Wales, who will be making their major tournament debut. It’s a group where no team can afford missteps, and every point will count.

Stars to Watch at Women’s Euro 2025

Michelle Agyemang (England) – The 19-year-old Arsenal forward announced her arrival by scoring just 41 seconds into her debut. Once a ball girl for manager Sarina Wiegman’s first game, she now emerges as an impact substitute for the defending champions.
Lia Walti (Switzerland) – The Swiss captain and Arsenal midfielder, nicknamed “Snake Hips” for her elusive dribbling, hopes home support will carry Switzerland into the knockout stages for the first time.
Marie-Antoinette Katoto (France) – Fully fit after an ACL injury at the last Euros, the dynamic striker and PSG’s all-time top scorer is expected to lead France’s charge after recent tournament disappointments.
Ewa Pajor (Poland) – With 47 goals in 46 games for Barcelona this past season, Pajor’s predatory instincts will be crucial if Poland are to navigate a brutal Group C.
Jessica Silva (Portugal) – Back from an eye injury, the 30-year-old forward and Portugal’s most experienced player will look to lead her side to their first knockout-stage appearance at a major tournament.
Jess Fishlock (Wales) – At 38, the legendary midfielder finally makes her major tournament debut, having amassed 162 caps over two decades. Her experience will be vital in Group D.
Signe Gaupset (Norway) – The 20-year-old midfielder brings a creative spark to an already star-studded Norwegian side and could be a breakout name at the tournament.
Ellen Wangerheim (Sweden) – The Hammarby striker, just 20, has impressed in the Champions League and could be a valuable asset off the bench for Sweden’s attacking unit.

The final will be held in Basel on July 27, where Europe’s best will vie for continental glory. Whether Spain’s recent dominance will extend to the Euros, England’s golden generation will defend their title, or a surprise package emerges remains to be seen in what promises to be the most competitive Women’s European Championship yet.