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🇨🇭 Switzerland Break Finnish Hearts with Last-Gasp Equalizer to Reach Quarterfinals
Xhemaili’s stoppage-time strike sends hosts into knockout stage for first time in history
⚽ The Agony and Ecstasy of Elite Football
In a dramatic conclusion to Group A at UEFA Women's Euro 2025, host nation Switzerland secured a historic place in the quarterfinals with a 1-1 draw against a spirited Finland side.
After Natalia Kuikka put Finland ahead with a calm penalty in the 79th minute, it looked as though they were set to knock the Swiss out. But in stoppage time, Riola Xhemaili became the national hero, rifling in the equalizer to send Geneva into raptures.
The draw sees Switzerland advance as Group A runners-up — their first-ever progression beyond the group stage at a European Championship.
📊 Group A Final Standings:
| Position | Team | GP | W | D | L | GD | PTS | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Norway | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | +3 | 9 | ✅ Qualified |
| 2 | Switzerland | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | +1 | 4 | ✅ Qualified |
| 3 | Finland | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 | ❌ Eliminated |
| 4 | Iceland | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | -4 | 0 | ❌ Eliminated |
🧤 Finland: Brave, But Beaten by Fate
Despite matching Switzerland point-for-point, Finland's fate was sealed by goal difference. Coach Marko Saloranta's side performed admirably in all three games, pushing group winners Norway close and delivering a memorable win over Iceland.
They leave the tournament with pride, having outperformed expectations and come within minutes of the knockout stages.
🥳 Swiss Celebration, but Tougher Tests Await
Manager Pia Sundhage’s side showed resilience in bouncing back from their opening loss to Norway and now look ahead to a formidable test against Spain.
But for now, the party in Geneva and across Switzerland is on. A first-ever quarterfinal appearance is a major milestone for a nation growing in footballing ambition.
