SPECIAL EDITION

Group D brought the drama, but now that’s settled, it’s on to everyone’s favourite bit… the knockouts. Keep reading for our Match Day 3 round-up, beginner’s guide to the quarter-finals, and quarter-final previews. Plus all the usuals - Kit drop, headlines, transfers and more. Let us know what you think – we read everything!

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⚽ PICKS FROM THE PITCH

England 6-1 Wales: Lionesses Click into Gear

England wrapped up the group stage in style, sweeping aside Wales 6-1 and booking their place in the quarter-finals with a performance full of confidence and attacking intent. The scoreline tells its own story, but there was more to this than just goals: England look settled, sharp, and (crucially) like a team that’s found its rhythm at just the right time.

Ella Toone continues to be the heartbeat of England’s midfield, adding another goal and assist to her tally and bringing structure and spark to the side. England’s pressing and passing were relentless, with every forward looking hungry. Wales, meanwhile, showed heart and discipline, Holland and Rowe worked tirelessly to contain the Lionesses, and Wales’ consolation goal was a deserved moment of pride.

What are the pundits saying?

• England’s tweaks since the France defeat have paid off. Toone’s influence and a settled line-up have unlocked their attacking potential.

• The Lionesses’ route to the final looks favourable, but they’ll need to maintain intensity and shore up the occasional defensive lapse against Sweden.

• Wales exit with heads high: their first Euros, first goals, and a team spirit that bodes well for the future.

🎥 Watch the highlights here

RESULTS ROUND-UP

• Spain 3-1 Italy (Highlights): Spain’s attack dazzled, but their defence still looks shaky. Putellas is back to her best, pulling the strings and scoring twice. Italy exposed gaps but couldn’t keep up.

• Portugal 1-2 Belgium (Highlights): Portugal needed a big win to have any hope of progressing, but fell short. Belgium’s late winner sealed their place in the knockouts, ending Portugal’s campaign.

• Poland 3-2 Denmark (Highlights): Poland made history with their first Euros goals and win. Pajor finally got on the scoresheet, capping a lively debut tournament.

• Sweden 4-1 Germany (Highlights): After a strong start, Germany completely collapsed. There was a wild ten minutes where Sweden scored, Germany had a player sent off, then Sweden doubled their lead from the spot. There was no coming back for Germany. Thankfully, they’d already qualified.

• France 5-2 Netherlands (Highlights): France ran riot in the second half, blowing the Dutch away with pace and movement. The Netherlands started well but faded as France’s attack found another gear.

🎥 Watch this if you only click one thing: Delphine Cascarino top bins

🤓 EURO FIRST TIMERS

How the Quarter-Finals Work

The group stage is done, now it’s on to knockout football. Here’s what you need to know:

• Eight teams remain: The top two from each group have progressed to the quarter-finals.

• Win or go home: If a match is level after 90 minutes, it goes to extra time (two 15-minute halves). Still level? It’s straight to penalties (five penalties per team). If the score still remains level after five pens, it goes to sudden death.

• What’s at stake: There are no second chances. Every match is must-win, and the pressure ramps up. Expect tighter games, tactical tweaks, and plenty of late drama.

New to the Euros? What else should we explain? Hit reply and let us know!

👋 KNOCKOUTS

Quarter-Final Match Preview

Sweden v England
The last time these two met at the Euros, Alessia Russo’s audacious backheel made headlines; their most recent meeting in April ended 1-1, underlining just how close this game could be.

England head into the quarter-finals looking revitalised, with their midfield balance and relentless pressing transformed since the opening defeat. Ella Toone’s influence has brought both structure and spark, while the Lionesses’ attack is firing with confidence and variety. The key for England will be maintaining this intensity and cutting out defensive lapses – Sweden are clinical and thrive on punishing mistakes.

Sweden, meanwhile, have shown they can absorb pressure and strike decisively, especially in high-stakes moments. Their organisation and discipline mean England can’t afford to switch off. Expect a finely poised contest between two sides who know each other well and have plenty of recent history.

Norway v Italy
Norway may have made it to the quarter-finals, but at times, they’ve ridden their luck, scraping through games rather than dominating, and struggling to find fluency despite their talent-packed squad. Italy, meanwhile, have shown tactical discipline and resilience, making the most of their opportunities. Expect a tight, tactical contest – Italy will need to keep Norway’s attack in check, while Norway must raise their level and avoid relying on fortune if they want to progress.

Spain v Switzerland
Spain are clear favourites, boasting form, firepower, and the tournament’s standout performers. Switzerland, however, have surprised as hosts and will be hoping the home crowd can help them pull off a shock. Spain’s technical quality should see them through, but knockout football always leaves the door open for a twist.

France v Germany
A classic heavyweight clash. France has dazzled going forward but remains defensively vulnerable, while Germany will be eager to bounce back after their group stage setback. Both sides have the talent to go all the way, but discipline and composure will be key. Expect this one to be fiercely contested from the first whistle.

👟 KIT DROP

Everyone watches women’s sports – Euro 2025 edition

TOGETHXR x FOUDYS: You might have spied the Togethxr Euros tees popping up all over the place, well, it’s not long until you can get your hands on one. They’ve partnered with Foudys to make their England, France and Netherlands tees available in Europe. Sign up to their waitlist for more info.

🚨 ICYMI

Top Headlines

🤑 Olivia Smith’s £1m Move: Arsenal are set to break the world transfer record with a £1 million bid for Liverpool’s Olivia Smith. The 20-year-old Canadian, fresh off a standout WSL season and named Liverpool’s player of the year, is on the verge of becoming the first £1m player in women’s football. England’s Lauren Hemp said the move “is great to see and it’s proof that women’s footballers are great.” Describing it as proof that women footballers are finally getting the recognition they deserve. Pundits agree this is a turning point – Smith’s deal signals a new era for the women’s game.

🇺🇸 USWNT legend Tobin Heath has called time on her career at 37, following a long battle with injury. The two-time World Cup and Olympic champion leaves the game with 181 caps, 36 goals, and a reputation as one of the most creative players of her era. Read more

🇧🇷 Brazil’s Marta says she’s undecided about playing at the 2027 World Cup on home soil, as she considers starting a family. The six-time World Player of the Year, whose Orlando Pride contract runs to 2026, says her next move could come down to a single moment of clarity. Read more

✍️ INSIDE TRACK

Transfer Round-up

CONFIRMED MOVES:

• Everton has signed Japan forward Yuka Momiki from Leicester. Technical and creative, she’s expected to add flair and attacking spark to Brian Sørensen’s side.

• Spanish goalkeeper Elene Lete joins London City Lionesses from Real Sociedad, bringing Champions League experience and a Zamora Trophy. Midfielder Shen Mengyu departs after a season, with the club praising her dynamism and wishing her well.

• Mia Fishel returns to the NWSL, signing a multi-year deal with Seattle Reign after two seasons at Chelsea. The US international striker is looking for a fresh start and regular minutes as she heads back stateside.

• Liverpool has snapped up 20-year-old midfielder Kirsty Maclean from Rangers. The Scottish league winner brings energy and creativity to the Reds’ midfield ahead of the new season.

RUMOUR HAS IT:

• Malmö FF are reportedly interested in signing newly available Fridolina Rolfö.

🛋️ DITCH THE SOFA

EURO 2025 Screenings

There are a crazy number of watch parties and screenings happening this summer. To help you out, we’ve curated a list of fan favourites and football community-led events, plus the best of the rest. Check it out here and find the perfect venue to watch the tournament.

Is there a screening happening near you that we’ve missed? Suggest a venue/event here.

📺 WEEKLY WATCHLIST

What We’re Watching

Your what-not-to-miss Euros viewing guide (BST)

Euro 2025 Quarter-Finals
Wednesday 16 July
QF1: Norway vs Italy [20:00, BBC One, iPlayer]

Thursday 17 July
QF3: Sweden vs England [20:00, BBC One, iPlayer]

Friday 18 July
QF2: Spain vs Switzerland [20:00, BBC One, iPlayer]

Saturday 19 July
QF4: France vs Germany [20:00, ITV, ITVX]

P.S. It’s not too late to grab a Euro 2025 wallchart. Get yours here

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