Women's Euro 2025 Power Rankings: England's Lionesses Face Challenges in Title Defense

Nine teams have already qualified for the tournament set to take place in Switzerland, including reigning world champions Spain, runners-up Germany, and former champions the Netherlands. The remaining seven spots will be filled by early December following the conclusion of the playoffs. With the already qualified teams able to organize friendly matches throughout 2024, it’s crucial to assess how the contenders are shaping up for Euro 2025.

9. Switzerland
Switzerland recently garnered attention with a 2-1 win over France, despite not facing their strongest lineup. This victory comes on the heels of relegation from League A in the Nations League, leading to the appointment of Pia Sundhage, the former coach of Brazil and the U.S. With the goal of progressing beyond the group stage in major tournaments, Sundhage's leadership offers hope, but more consistency is necessary.

8. Iceland
Despite their small size, Iceland has developed into a competitive team, featuring players from top clubs like Bayern Munich and Wolfsburg. Under coach Thorsteinn Halldorsson, they have shown promise, narrowly missing out on World Cup qualification last year. However, their long history without a win at the Euros since 2013 limits their status to that of dark horse.

7. Denmark
Newly managed by Andree Jeglertz, Denmark performed admirably in the Nations League and finished a close second in Euro 2025 qualifying behind Spain. With a favorable draw in the upcoming tournament, there is optimism that they can replicate their successful run to the Euro final in 2017.

6. Italy
After a disappointing Euro 2022 and World Cup showing, Italy is under the guidance of new coach Andrea Soncin. They achieved a historic quarter-final finish in the 2019 World Cup and have started to regain form, topping their qualifying group ahead of stronger teams. This combination of youth and experience makes them a team to watch.

5. France
France has experienced a tumultuous period, with coaching changes and disappointing tournament performances. Under Laurent Bonadei, who succeeded Hervé Renard, the team is in a rebuilding phase, focusing on player assessment rather than immediate results. Despite recent inconsistencies, they remain a powerhouse in women's football.

4. Netherlands
The Netherlands, under coach Andries Jonker, made a positive impact at the 2023 Women's World Cup, narrowly missing out on a semi-final spot against Spain. Despite some setbacks since then, they continue to show promise with a blend of experienced and emerging talent, positioning them as a potential contender at Euro 2025.

3. England
The Lionesses have room for improvement ahead of Euro 2025. Although they have qualified for the tournament, their recent performances, including a disappointing showing in the Nations League, highlight defensive vulnerabilities. Wiegman has proven to be a skilled strategist and will need to address these issues to enhance England's chances.

2. Germany
Under new coach Christian Wuck, Germany has started with an exciting performance against England, showcasing their attacking prowess. Despite an unusual two-year stretch marked by mixed results, the team remains formidable and the Olympic medal they secured recently exemplifies their quality and potential under Wuck's fresh direction.

1. Spain
Spain emerges as the early favorite for Euro 2025 despite a disappointing Olympic performance. The presence of two Ballon d'Or winners, Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas, among a talented squad makes them a force to reckon with. Their recent results, including draws against Canada and Italy, have raised questions, but their status as reigning world champions and winners of the Nations League positions them at the forefront of the competition.