Pia Sundhage believes the quarterfinal clash against Spain in the quarterfinals of the Women’s 2025 European Championships, represents her biggest test as manager of Switzerland.
The Swiss women finished second in Group A behind Norway, setting up a tough quarterfinal test against the world champions, who topped Group B with a flawless record.
Ahead of their clash in the last eight on Friday, Pia Sundhage acknowledged the Spanish women as favorites but is confident her side can pull off a major upset.
“I would day this is the biggest [challenge] ever, playing against the world champions, on home soil, in a quarterfinal — this is the moment”, she said.
“Put three things together: ‘world champions,’ ‘Spain,’ because everyone talks about the way Spain are playing, and then ‘quarterfinal.’ It makes this so special and you have to grab that moment.
It will be difficult. It’s not only about each individual player, but about being together. And if that togetherness works, we do have a chance”, the 65-year-old revealed.
The host nations are underdogs going into the clash although Sundhage’s is optimistic about her team’s chances of putting up a great fight.
“We try to share stories,” she said. “Even in our bubble, things have been happening previously in Switzerland. That was an idea from Johan [to show them the 2010 game].”
Switzerland and Spain battle it out in the quarterfinals on Friday, with the winner set to meet Germany or France in the semifinals.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
