What to Expect in the UEFA Women’s EURO Quarterfinals
The European Championships have been an incredible spectacle and an amazing way to continually grow the women’s game in Europe. We’re down to the final eight in the competition, and the stakes are as high as ever. The defending champions, the Netherlands, are still alive, and the hosts, England, look like a team of destiny. These matchups are top-notch. Let’s delve deeper into how the EURO quarterfinals will play out.
England vs. Spain – July 20, 3:00 PM ET/12:00 PM PT, ESPN2
This has to be the marquee matchup of the round. Both of these teams were favorites to win coming into the tournament. The absence of Alexia Putellas has loomed large for Spain. They lost to Germany 2-0 and then scraped by a tough Denmark side to get here. Yet, they have the talent and the tactics to win the game.
However, England has looked unstoppable as hosts, and that crowd will give them a lift with the expected atmosphere in the stadium. Aitana Bonmati is the key for Spain in the midfield, and her ability to create quality opportunities could be the difference in the game.
That said, England is just too deep of a team and is clicking on every level. Fran Kirby is back playing at a high level after some time off to improve her mental health, and they have a plethora of attackers who they can use. Spain would have to play the game of their lives to win this one. England should advance to the semifinals here.
Prediction: England Wins 2-0
Germany vs. Austria – July 21, 3:00 PM ET/12:00 PM PT, ESPN2
Germany didn’t have much trouble in the Group Stage to get here, and they prepare to take on the surprise of the tournament. The Austrians knocked out Norway in stunning fashion with a 1-0 win that no one saw coming.
There’s also a level of familiarity at the club level that could make this match interesting. Thirteen of Austria’s players play in the Frauen Bundesliga, and they will not be scared or back down from the powerhouse that is Germany. Yet, the Germans are flat out a better team. Alexandra Popp and Lina Magull have gone from the young supporting players to the star players.
Austria would have to defend like champions to pull off the upset, but Germany should be able to advance easily.
Prediction: Germany Wins 3-0
Sweden vs. Belgium – July 22, 3:00 PM ET/12:00 PM PT, ESPN2
Sweden has flown under the radar this tournament, but as a rival of the USWNT, we know how good this team can be. Belgium is a very favorable matchup for them.
In a game where Italy had twice as many shots and even more possession, Belgium managed to squeak out a 1-0 win to advance when Iceland was primed to take the spot. The same strategy applies to the underdog here–defend as much as possible and hope that Sweden makes a mistake.
Unfortunately for Belgium, the trio of Magdalena Eriksson, Kosovare Asllani, and Stina Blackstenius is one of the best in the tournament and can go toe-to-toe with anyone. Sweden is winning this game. It’s hard to see any other outcome.
Prediction: Sweden Wins 4-0
France vs. Netherlands July 23, 3:00 PM ET/12:00 PM PT, ESPN2
Last but certainly not least, France versus Holland is sure to be fireworks. Interestingly enough, the Netherlands actually have a European Championship in their name, but France does not.
For how dominant Lyon has been at the club level, it’s shocking that France has never advanced past the quarterfinal in this competition. In fact, it was the Netherlands that took out France on their way to the title in 2017. Now, a new look French side with no Amandine Henry or Eugenie Le Sommer tries to take out the Netherlands.
Holland has done well despite their COVID drama. Star striker Vivianne Miedema has been itching to get back into the team but has missed the last two matches. If she plays, it’s an entirely different match, but all the uncertainty surrounding the team impacts chemistry and morale.
This new look French side might finally make the breakthrough they are searching for. This will be close, but France has a great chance to advance.
Prediction: France Wins in PKs 5-4 (1-1 in Regulation)
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