The Netherlands women's national football team, known as the Oranje Leeuwinnen (Orange Lionesses), is preparing to compete in the UEFA Women's Euro 2025, which will be held in Switzerland from July 2 to July 27. As the 2017 European champions, the Dutch side is eager to reclaim their title, but they face a challenging path ahead in what is considered the "group of death".

Team Overview

The Netherlands is currently ranked 11th in the FIFA Women's World Rankings. They have a rich history in women's football, including winning the 2017 UEFA Women's Euro and reaching the final of the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup. In the Euro 2025 qualifying, the Netherlands finished second in their group.

The team is managed by Andries Jonker, who took over in 2022. Jonker, who has a background in both men's and women's football, has focused on restoring tactical balance and fluidity to the squad. However, Arjan Veurink will succeed Jonker as coach after the Euro 2025 tournament.

Squad Analysis

The Netherlands boasts a squad with a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents. Key players include:

• Goalkeepers: Daphne van Domselaar (Arsenal), Lize Kop (Tottenham), Daniëlle de Jong (Twente). Van Domselaar is considered one of the best goalkeepers in Europe.
• Defenders: Sherida Spitse (Ajax), Esmee Brugts (Barcelona), Kerstin Casparij (Man City), Dominique Janssen (Manchester United), Lynn Wilms (Unattached).
• Midfielders: Daniëlle van de Donk (London City Lionesses), Damaris Egurrola (Lyon), Jackie Groenen (PSG), Victoria Pelova (Arsenal), Jill Roord (FC Twente).
• Forwards: Lineth Beerensteyn (Wolfsburg), Renate Jansen, Romée Leuchter, Vivianne Miedema, Katja Snoeijs. Miedema is the team's biggest attacking threat and is close to reaching 100 international goals.

Group D Challenge

The Netherlands has been drawn into Group D, which is widely regarded as the most challenging group in the tournament. Their opponents are:

• England: The reigning European champions.
• France: Joint-third favorites to win the tournament.
• Wales: Making their debut in a major tournament.

Tournament Odds and Expectations

The Netherlands is considered a dark horse for the title, with bookmakers placing their odds at around 16/1. Opta's pre-tournament predictions give them a 5% chance of winning Euro 2025. To progress deep into the tournament, the Netherlands will need to navigate their challenging group and perform consistently against top-tier opponents.

Match Schedule

The Netherlands' Group D matches are:

• July 5 vs Wales in Lucerne
• July 9 vs England in Zurich
• July 13 vs France

Concluding Thoughts

The Netherlands enters the Women's Euro 2025 with a blend of experience and emerging talent. Their success will hinge on their ability to navigate a tough group, maintain tactical flexibility, and capitalize on their attacking prowess. While not among the top favorites, their history and potential make them a team to watch in Switzerland.