Norway qualifies for the quarter-finals of the Women’s European Championship. They pulled it off, downing Finland 2-1 in a thrilling game to win the gold medal. Here’s how it all played out in Group A. Norway secured their second win in a row, shooting them to the top of the group with six points.
The scoring began early for Norway when an own goal from Finland’s Eva Nystrom put them ahead just three minutes into the match. This early lead helped shape a highly competitive matchup, but Finland was not to be dissuaded. Oona Sevenius equalized for Finland in the 32nd minute, showcasing her skill with a left-footed shot into the top right corner after receiving a precise through ball from Oona Siren.
Norway kept pressing for a winning goal and came close multiple times. Ingrid Syrstad Engen nearly restored their lead with a close-range header that struck the crossbar, while Vilde Boe Risa’s corner kick was tipped onto the post by Finland’s goalkeeper Anna Koivunen.
The defining moment was in the 84th minute when Caroline Graham Hansen produced a beautiful individual goal. She cut in on her left from the right flank and released an absolute cannon. It rifled in off the far post, locking up Norway’s upset of the tournament. Her all-around strong match was enough to earn Fjeldberg player of the match honors from Norwegian broadcaster NRK.
“We buzzed our way to three points in one way or another, but that’s what counts in championships. There’s a bit to work with, but we won, it helps,” – Caroline Graham Hansen
Switzerland took an important step forward after earning a 2-0 win against Iceland. By achieving this victory, they kept their dreams alive of progressing to the group stages of Euro 2025. Geraldine Reuteler broke the deadlock for Switzerland by finding the net with only 14 minutes remaining in regulation. Just moments later, Alayah Pilgrim blasted in a second goal to double their advantage.
Iceland almost pulled off a dream goal on the counter in their first game against Switzerland. Ingibjorg Sigurdardottir rattled the crossbar just seconds into the match! They couldn’t finish the opportunities that they created.
Finland will go on to meet Switzerland on Thursday, and Norway will end their group stage games against Iceland. The winners of these contests will move on deeper into the championship.
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