Norway is facing Italy in the first quarter-final of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, with the match taking place in Geneva on July 16 at 9pm local time (8pm UK time)[1][2][3]. Norway, two-time champions, topped Group A with a perfect record but showed moments of inconsistency during the group stage[1]. Italy, meanwhile, have reached the knockout stages for the first time in 12 years and are looking to claim a spot in the semi-finals for the first time since 1997[1][2].
Key players for Norway include Caroline Graham Hansen and Ada Hegerberg, with Signe Gaupset also staking a strong claim for a starting spot after her standout group stage performance. For Italy, veteran Cristiana Girelli is set to return up front. Both teams are seen as closely matched, given their recent draws during qualifying, and this quarter-final is widely expected to be a tightly contested encounter[2].
The winner of this match will go on to play the winner of England vs. Sweden in the next round[1][2]. Norwegian coach Gemma Grainger highlighted Italy’s strong organization and attacking ambition, while Italian coach Andrea Soncin spoke of his team’s unity and determination to continue their remarkable run[2].
Norway’s squad will be missing Marit Bratberg Lund due to suspension, while Italy are likely to field a similar lineup to their last match. Fans can watch the match live on BBC One and iPlayer, with coverage starting from 7:30pm UK time[1][2].