The UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 quarter-finals have set the stage for a thrilling encounter as England are set to lock horns with a formidable Sweden side on Thursday evening in Zurich. And the Lionesses, captained by Leah Williamson, know they will be facing one of the most consistent and dangerous teams in football.
Williamson wary of 'relentless' SwedenWants to see more respect for opponentsDetermined to seal spot in semi-finalsFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Sarina Wiegman’s squad bounced back from an opening loss to France by hammering the Netherlands and Wales in their remaining group stage fixtures, but the challenge ahead promises to be a whole new level. Sweden arrive at the quarter-finals in top form, having dominated Group C with three consecutive wins. Their emphatic 4-1 triumph over Germany in their final group match turned heads across Europe, further cementing their status as a tournament powerhouse.
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Since 2017, Sweden have reached the quarter-finals in every major tournament, a feat only matched by England and France. Their record includes six wins from their last seven Euro matches, the only blemish being a 4-0 loss to England in the semi-finals of Euro 2022.
WHAT WILLIAMSON SAID
Speaking ahead of the tie, Williamson was full of admiration for Thursday's opponents. She acknowledged Sweden’s consistency and discipline, suggesting that they don’t always get the praise they merit.
"Sweden's previous results at tournaments are incredible. They are relentless when it comes to tournament football," said Williamson.
"Maybe 'disrespectful' is too strong a word, but I do think they deserve a little bit more recognition. When you have a team who work for each other like Sweden, then you don't need to necessarily have a crazy standout threat because everyone plays their roles. They are hard to prepare for in that sense. The discipline for them all to complete their jobs on the pitch makes them a dangerous side."
DID YOU KNOW?
After a slow start to their campaign, England appears to be hitting their stride just when it matters most. Following a disappointing defeat to France in their opening group game, the Lionesses turned things around in style, first by dispatching the Netherlands 4-0 and then dismantling Wales with a dominant 6-1 victory.
