The Italian women's national team is gearing up for the UEFA Women's Euro 2025, to be held in Switzerland. After a mixed bag of results and a period of rebuilding, the Azzurre are aiming to make a significant impact on the tournament.
Italy secured their place at the Euro 2025 by winning their Women's Nations League group, topping a tough pool that included Finland, Norway and the Netherlands. This achievement highlights the team's progress under coach Andrea Soncin, who was appointed in September 2023. Soncin's arrival has seemingly revitalized the squad, blending experienced players with promising young talents, creating a well-organized and competitive team.
Italy has a long history in the Women's Euros, even winning two unofficial titles in the pre-UEFA era (1969, 1979). They have participated in 13 official tournaments, reaching the final twice, in 1993 and 1997, but have yet to win the competition. In recent years, their performance has been inconsistent, with group stage exits in the 2017 and 2022 editions. The goal for 2025 will be to advance beyond the group stage and aim for a quarter-final spot, a feat they last achieved in 2013.
Drawn into Group B, Italy faces a challenging path against Spain, Portugal and Belgium. Spain, the reigning world champions, are the clear favorites, while Belgium and Portugal present tough competition for the second qualifying spot. Italy's key matches will be against Belgium and Portugal, where victories are crucial for their chances of advancing.
Several players are expected to play pivotal roles for Italy. Manuela Giugliano is considered indispensable by coach Soncin. Her playmaking vision and passing ability make her the engine of the team's attack. Other players to watch include rising star Sofia Cantore, who had an excellent season with Juventus, and veteran Cristiana Girelli, the team's captain and most reliable forward. Lisa Boattin, a solid defender, is also closing in on 50 caps for Italy.
Italy's style of play is tactically flexible, alternating between 4-3-3, 3-4-3, and 3-5-2 formations depending on the opponent. The team prioritizes building from the back with a focus on possession and coordinated movement. Defensively, they can be vulnerable in physical duels and aerial situations.
While Italy are not among the top favorites to win the tournament, they have the potential to surprise. Bookmakers rank them as outsiders, with odds around 25/1. However, a strong performance in the group stage could see them through to the quarter-finals, where they could face a potentially easier opponent from Group A.
The final 23-player squad will be announced on June 25, 2025. The preliminary squad included a mix of experienced veterans and promising youngsters across all positions.
