Switzerland scripted history on Thursday night in Geneva, securing a spot in the Women’s EURO 2025 quarterfinals for the first time after a nerve-wracking 1-1 draw against Finland.
A stoppage-time equaliser by Riola Xhemaili sparked jubilant scenes at Stade de Genève, sending the host nation through alongside Norway, who topped Group A with a dominant 4-3 win over Iceland.
Finland looked poised to qualify after centre-back Natalia Kuikka coolly converted a penalty in the 79th minute, celebrating her 101st international appearance. But Switzerland, driven by home crowd energy and relentless offensive pressure, found salvation in the 92nd minute. Xhemaili latched onto a loose ball following Geraldine Reuteler’s mis-hit attempt, hammering in the goal that kept Swiss hopes alive.
Meanwhile, Norway’s Signe Gaupset delivered a sensational performance in her tournament debut, scoring twice and assisting another pair of goals in a wild 4-3 win over Iceland. Gaupset’s clinical first-half double overturned Iceland’s early lead, while Frida Maanum benefited from her playmaking to notch Norway’s third and fourth strikes.
Despite their elimination, Iceland showed grit, with goals from Sveindis Jonsdottir and Hlin Eiriksdottir pushing the match into thriller territory. A stoppage-time penalty converted by Glodis Viggosdottir closed the gap, but Norway held firm to end the group stage with three wins from three.
With Switzerland now set to face Group B winner Spain, the quarterfinal stage promises fiery matchups and historic stakes for the host nation.
