Day one of Euro 2025 did not disappoint! Finland assured their first victory over a European championship for women in 16 years, while Norway came from behind to break Swiss hearts in Basel. Sky Sports looks at how the promotion unfolded …
Kosola stars like Finland Stun Iceland
Katariina Kosola helped a determined Finland to their first victory over a European championships since 2009 – also the last time they progressed beyond the group stage during a major tournament.
The brilliant right-wing strike from Kosola caused a 1-0 win over Iceland of 10 players, who, despite the fact that it was the highest ranked team in group A, were flat and rhythm was missing after losing captain Glodis Viggosdottir against injury early in the game.
Predicted as a tight and cage affair, Finland insisted on a open with Kosola who shot constant warning shots, drove in on her favorite foot and testing Cecilia walked Runarsdottir before he finally made the breakthrough halfway through the second half.
Hildur Antonsdottir saw Red for two quick -fire warnings just before the Kosola decision maker – adding the wee of Iceland – and will miss their next group phase match against hosts Switzerland on Sunday.
Finland, who removed the difference in official rankings, earned more than three points and can prepare their next fixture against Norway that are stimulated for 16 long years by their first major tournament defense.
Finland -defender Natalia Kuikka, who said with Womenseuro.com: “After the red card we could score and get Momentum. At the end Iceland just came to us, so it was honestly not feeling that they were missing a player.
“A feather for them because they were tough opponents, the last 15 minutes were pretty chaotic. I am happy that we were able to keep and win a clean slate.”