Alisha Lehmann is the social media star in women’s football.

Women's European Championship: Favorites, stars and money

The European Championship kicks off in Switzerland on Wednesday, and UEFA expects at least 600.000 fans—a record. Here, we answer the most important questions in advance.

July 01, 2025

From: dpa

In which mode is the game played?

The European Championship is a very traditional and straightforward affair. The 16 participating nations are divided into four groups of four teams, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarterfinals. This is followed by the semifinals and the final on July 27 in Basel, but there will be no third-place play-off.

Who are the favorites?

World champions Spain, who were drawn against weaker opponents in Group B in the preliminary round, including Portugal, Belgium, and Italy, are among the hot favorites. Defending champions England and France, who already meet in Group D, are also among the favorites – as is Germany, which could face either England or France in the quarterfinals. Sweden and the Netherlands, coached by former Bundesliga coach Andries Jonker, are considered outsiders.

Alexia Putellas (l.) and Jennifer Hermoso are the top favorites for Spain. © APA/afp / FRANCK FIFE

What is the host team like?

"I do believe this is the best national team I've played for so far," said world-class director Ramona Bachmann about the Swiss women's team at the beginning of April. However, the former Wolfsburg player will miss the European Championship at home due to a cruciate ligament tear – as will defensive leader Luana Bühler, who was sidelined at short notice due to knee problems.


In any case, the mood ahead of the opening match on Wednesday (21.00 p.m. in Basel against Norway) could be better. Recent performances have been mixed, including the much-discussed 1-7 defeat against FC Luzern's U15s. Arsenal's Lia Wälti is expected to lead the team led by experienced coach Pia Sundhage (65). Internet star Alisha Lehmann is also causing a stir. Also in the spotlight is super talent Sydney Schertenleib from FC Barcelona.

Who's new?

Wales and Poland are celebrating their European Championship participation in Switzerland – and, unsurprisingly, are underdogs in their respective groups. The Poles, led by top striker Ewa Pajor, who moved from Wolfsburg to FC Barcelona last year, will face Germany in Group C. Wales will face England, France, and the Netherlands in the top Group D.

Which stars are in focus?

A lot of individual talent stands out in the England squad. Particular hopes are pinned on attacking talent Lauren James of Chelsea FC, who returned fit just in time after a three-month injury layoff. "I see her as a little magician in midfield," enthused former national team goalkeeper Karen Bardsley on BBC Radio 5. "Her natural movement, her unpredictability, and her shooting technique: she looks like she's doing her own thing in midfield."

Englishwoman Lauren James is considered a spectacular player. © ANSA / ADAM VAUGHAN

Spain will be well represented by two-time World Women's Footballer of the Year Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmati, although the latter's future remains a question mark after suffering from viral meningitis and a hospital stay. Key players on their teams include Wendie Renard (France), Kosovare Asllani (Sweden), Bayern's Pernille Harder (Norway), Manuela Giugliano (Italy), Tessa Wullaert (Belgium), Tatiana Pinto (Portugal), Emma Koivisto (Finland), and Bayern captain Glodis Viggosdottir (Iceland).

How much can you earn?

More than ever before. The European Football Union (UEFA) is distributing a total of €41 million in prize money, significantly more than in 2022 (€16 million). The associations will each receive €1,8 million as entry fees. Should a team win all group matches and the knockout phase, including the final, the winners will receive €5,1 million in prize money.