Norway first to reach quarter-finals after Finland win

Norway became the first side to reach the Euro 2025 quarter-finals after Caroline Graham Hansen’s late goal snatched victory against Finland.

They won Group A after Switzerland beat Iceland in Sunday’s late game as their victory against the Swiss in their opening fixture means they are guaranteed to finish top due to their head-to-head record.

Finland were the better side for the majority of the game, but Barcelona’s Graham Hansen netted the winner with six minutes of normal time remaining when a cross went in off the far post.

Norway were gifted an early lead when Eva Nystrom knocked a Graham Hansen cross into her own net after just 129 seconds.

Gemma Grainger’s side were unable to capitalise on their advantage as Finland soon pressed for an equaliser, stretching the Norwegian defence and producing neat build-up routines.

Finland’s persistence paid off when Oona Sevenius, brought in to replace Sanni Franssi for this game, whipped a brilliant side-footed effort into the far corner after her side overturned possession when Norway misplaced a pass playing out from the back.

Eveliina Summanen nearly put Finland in front when she unleashed a quick curling effort from the edge of the area in the second half, but her strike was denied by the far post.

Finland continued to press for a winner but were left frustrated by their inability to capitalise on chances as Norway sealed an arguably undeserved win.

What was the main talking point?

There was momentary hope that Norway would improve on the underwhelming performance in their opening win against Switzerland, but they soon proved to be lacking sharpness once again.

Speaking on BBC Two, former Scotland defender Rachel Corsie called Norway a “disgrace” at half-time and things were arguably worse after the break, but their late push managed to salvage victory.

“I have played against Norway and normally they’re very dominant,” Corsie added. “This is the Euros. So often they have walked about – it is remarkable.”

Finland created the best passages of play, fluidly zipping the ball around to work through the Norwegian midfield. They continually had their opponents beaten on the wings, knocking balls over the top to fashion opportunities.

Norway, on the other hand, looked disjointed. Grainger’s side is one that is brimming with talent, but they have struggled to click at Euro 2025 and were unable to get the best out of Ada Hegerberg, Graham Hansen and Frida Maanum.

They found a way to win on Sunday but are still far from being a convincing, cohesive unit.

Which players stood out?

Finland were the more creative side on Sunday evening and they owed much of that to the work of Summanen.

The Tottenham midfielder, who delivered the assist in their 1-0 win against Iceland on the opening day, had excellent vision to pick out passes and spark attacks.

Sevenius and veteran forward Linda Sallstrom’s efforts were also important. They regularly looked to carry the ball forward, beating their markers for pace and carving space behind the Norwegian defence.

Nobody made much of an impression for Norway, although Graham Hansen was one of the few players who continued to play with intent throughout in search of a winner.

What are the standout stats?

Norway have won both of their opening two games of a Women’s Euros for the third time, after 1987 and 1993 – the two years they previously won the competition.

Norway have benefitted from five own goals in their Euros history, the most of any nation.

Captain Sallstrom made her ninth Euros appearance for Finland, the most of any player for her country.

What’s next for both teams?

Norway take on Iceland on Thursday, 10 July at 20:00 BST in their final group-stage game.

Finland will take on hosts Switzerland, who they are currently behind on goal difference, at the same time on Thursday as they look to book a spot in the last eight.

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