Finland Wins Opener Ending 16-Year Euro Drought Amid Norway, Switzerland Matches

The UEFA Women's Euro 2025 kicked off with Finland securing a historic 1-0 victory over Iceland in the tournament's opening match, marked by a record-breaking 29 combined shots, the most in any Women's World Cup or Euros opener since 2011. Katariina Kosola scored the decisive goal for Finland in the 70th minute after Iceland's Hildur Antonsdottir was sent off with a second yellow card, ending Finland's eight-game winless streak at the European Championship level that dated back to 2009. Meanwhile, host nation Switzerland started strong but ultimately lost 2-1 to Norway in Group A, with Norway's captain Ada Hegerberg scoring her 50th international goal and contributing to the comeback. The tournament's Group B began with the world champions Spain facing Portugal, although Spain may be without key player Aitana Bonmati due to viral meningitis. Finland's victory puts them in a strong position within the balanced Group A, while Norway's win over Switzerland highlights their status as group favorites. The tournament continues with anticipation for competitive matches among top European teams.