The semi-finalists for the women’s Euro have been determined, showcasing the surprises and thrilling matches of this summer. The final four teams include Switzerland, with reigning Women’s World Cup champion Spain and European champion England making their expected appearances in the semi-finals as favorites. They could potentially face each other again in the Sunday finale, two years after their World Cup showdown. Additionally, Germany, a powerhouse with a storied history, has shown resilience despite recent ups and downs, making it to the Final Four after overcoming tough challenges.
Italian representation in the semi-finals is a surprising development; they haven’t celebrated success in the knockout rounds since 1997 and haven’t reached the World Cup quarterfinals yet. However, they’ve emerged as a promising contender this summer, aiming for their first final since 1997 and an exciting opportunity for major victories. The semi-finals will take place in the UK on Tuesday, with Spain going head-to-head with Germany on Wednesday, all vying for a spot in the final at St. Jacob Park in Basel.
Rankings of the Final Four Teams in Women’s Euro
4. Italy
Italy is gradually establishing itself in European football, earning respect by defeating Norway 2-1 in the quarter-finals. Their performance against one of the strongest teams in the world offers optimism, but they face a daunting test against England, having only netted three goals during the group stage.
3. Germany
Germany’s legacy as eight-time European champions brings a sense of confidence, although they have battled inconsistency this summer, largely due to injuries to key players. Their squad boasts standout talents, but being down to ten players significantly impacts their chances against Spain.
2. England
England excels offensively with 13 goals scored and has a diverse lineup of ten goal scorers, featuring emerging stars. However, their defense has shown vulnerability, which could be exploited by teams like Italy during the semi-finals.
1. Spain
Spain continues to impress, having netted 16 goals and conceded only three as they advanced to the semi-finals. While some debate whether they have faced strong enough competition, their depth of talent marks them as clear favorites going into the next round.
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer fans as it underscores the rising competitiveness in women’s football and highlights the potential for new champions to emerge. The outcomes of these matches could reshape narratives in the sport, generating excitement and new fan engagement across the globe.