Quarterfinal Bracket Unveiled
The quarterfinal draw is now complete, and the knockout phase begins on Wednesday, July 16, kicking off with Norway vs. Italy in Geneva. The full slate:
- Norway vs. Italy – Wed, July 16 (Geneva)
- Sweden vs. England – Thu, July 17 (Zurich)
- Spain vs. Switzerland – Fri, July 18 (Bern)
- France vs. Germany – Sat, July 19 (Basel)
Italy’s Resurgence vs. Norway’s Consistency
Italy reached the knockout stage for the first time since 2013, relying on unity and spirit to edge out tougher Group B opponents. They face Norway, which topped Group A with three straight wins. Norway’s captain, Ada Hegerberg, brings leadership and pedigree to the encounter.
England, Sweden Set Up High‑Tension Clash
Defending champions England recovered from an opening loss to march through Group D, including a 6‑1 routing of Wales. They now face unbeaten Sweden, group winners with a notable 4‑1 victory over Germany. England captain Leah Williamson described Sweden as “relentless.”
Hosts, Powerhouses Face Off
Spain, reigning women’s world champions, stormed to Group B supremacy and will play host Switzerland, who punched above their weight to reach the quarterfinals for the first time. Meanwhile, France and Germany, two traditional powerhouses, will clash in Basel, rounding out the quarterfinal fixtures.
Stakes and Atmosphere
Knockout drama heats up in Swiss venues across Bern, Zurich, Basel, and Geneva, with rising attendance and record engagement driving the excitement. Teams now face single-elimination pressure, with extra time and penalties looming if matches stay tied, aiming to reach the semifinals on July 22 and the final on July 27 in Basel.
