Finland edges Iceland in tense Euro 2025 opener

In a fiercely contested match at the Stockhorn Arena, Finland emerged victorious, defeating Iceland 1-0 in their UEFA Women's Euro 2025 opener. The decisive moment came in the 70th minute when K. Kosola found the back of the net, courtesy of a well-placed assist from E. Summanen.

The visitors dictated much of the play, with Finland completing a total of 16 shots—4 of which were on target—showcasing their attacking prowess and maintaining a comfortable 56% possession throughout the match. Iceland, despite their positional play, found it hard to break down Finland's defense, amassing only 12 shots and facing a relentless Finnish backline.

The home side’s challenges multiplied when H. Antonsdottir was sent off with a red card early in the second half, reducing Iceland to ten players. This tactical disadvantage, coupled with a spirited Finnish side, made it exceedingly hard for Iceland to mount a comeback.

Finland's resilience and tactical discipline shone through, and they now sit at the top of their group, having started their campaign on a high note. As for Iceland, they will need to regroup quickly if they are to bounce back in their upcoming matches.

With the top teams vying for positioning in the tournament, this match serves as an exhilarating start to the competition, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling Euro 2025.