Norway vs. Italy: Euro 2025 Quarter-Final Showdown! Who Will Advance?
Euro 2025 Quarter-Final: Norway Faces Italy in Geneva
The UEFA Women's Euro 2025 quarter-finals are underway, with Norway and Italy battling for a coveted spot in the final four. The match is taking place in Geneva, and anticipation is high as both teams aim to continue their journey in the tournament.
Norway, who topped Group A with a perfect record, are looking to recapture their past glory, having won the European Championship in 1987 and 1993. Coach Gemma Grainger acknowledges Italy's strengths, highlighting their individual talent, well-organized defense, and forward-thinking attack. "(Italy's) obvious strengths, for me, are the individuals they have," Grainger stated. "They have some very good individual players. From a defensive perspective, they're very well-organised... From an attacking perspective, they are very forward-thinking."
Italy, finishing as runners-up in Group B, have reached the knockout stage for the first time since 2013. Their journey has been marked by solid defensive performances, but they'll need to find more firepower to overcome the strong Norwegian side. They only scored once in each of their group games.
Key Players and Tactical Approaches
Norway boasts a star-studded lineup, including Barcelona's Caroline Graham Hansen, Chelsea's Guro Reiten, and Lyon's Ada Hegerberg. The emergence of Signe Gaupset, who scored twice and assisted twice in a group stage win, provides Norway with added offensive dynamism. Italy will need to contain these key players to stand a chance.
Italy could reach their first semi-final in any competition since 1997. Interestingly, the team they beat to seal their place in the final four back then? Norway.
Where to Watch
- UK: BBC One
- U.S.: Fox
- Streaming: Fubo (free trial available)
The match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two strong European teams. Will Norway's attacking prowess prevail, or can Italy's defensive resilience secure them a semi-final berth?