Who will win the battle of the North? Everything you need to know before kick-off
Football excitement is reaching its peak. The UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 is already well underway. On Friday, 04.07.2025, a true hit awaits: a clash of two Scandinavian football powerhouses — Sweden and Denmark. This match will be crucial in the context of the tournament’s further course. Let’s take a look at what we can expect in this fascinating encounter.
Rivalry history: The battle of the North
When you talk about matches between Sweden and Denmark, what comes to mind is above all fierce battles, emotion, and spectacular games. Both national teams are symbols of women’s football — not only in Scandinavia but also worldwide. Historically, this rivalry has produced many unforgettable moments that have shaped the image of women’s football in Europe.
Euro 2017 final – Remember Denmark’s show?
The most notable achievement of Denmark’s women’s national team was reaching the final of Euro 2017. Back then, the Danes lost to the Dutch 2–4. Despite the defeat, they delivered beautiful attacking football that will forever remain in the hearts of fans. Sweden last won the European championship in 1984, which all the more motivates the Swedish team today to redeem themselves on Europe’s pitches.
Tournament stars: Rolfö vs Harder
At the heart of both teams are two world-class players — Fridolina Rolfö and Pernille Harder.
Sweden’s hope: Fridolina Rolfö
Fridolina Rolfö, striker for FC Barcelona, despite a recent foot injury, returned to the Swedish national team in time and is ready to deliver thrills during Euro 2025. In her international career, she has played almost a hundred matches, being one of the most recognizable faces of Swedish women’s football.
Denmark’s legend: Pernille Harder
No less talented is Denmark’s leader — Pernille Harder. This player, who represents Bayern Munich, has for years been considered one of the best in the world. She is the captain of the Danish national team and the record holder for most goals scored for the side: 78 goals in 162 appearances — that speaks for itself. Harder remains the driving force of the team, and her presence always guarantees the highest level.
Coaching duel: Who will find the golden mean?
At the helm of both teams are coaches of great class and experience.
Sweden’s tactical master – Peter Gerhardsson
Under Peter Gerhardsson’s leadership, Sweden has for years shown very mature tactical play. Gerhardsson — who is ending his national team career after this championship — is known for his flexibility. He is never a slave to one formation but adjusts his plan to each opponent. The creativity and teamwork he instills in his players make Sweden a tough opponent.
Denmark’s ambition – Andrée Jeglertz
On the other side is Andrée Jeglertz, who has built Denmark’s team on fast, attacking football. Jeglertz often uses a 3-4-3 formation, which provides ample space for attack and tactical flexibility. The Danes have plenty of weapons — not only Harder makes a difference, but also striker Signe Bruun, who impresses with her efficiency.
Favorite vs challenger: What to expect?
Sweden: Experience and attacking confidence
Sweden is a renowned team. The Swedish players have repeatedly reached the crucial stages of the biggest tournaments. Their chances of advancing from the group are estimated at nearly 60%. Their greatest strength is their offense and tactical flexibility, which could prove key already in this opening match against Denmark.
Denmark: Hunger for success and a chance for revenge
The Danes, who face a slightly tougher situation (49.6% chance of advancing), are by no means doomed to defeat. Despite recent tougher results against Sweden, their morale is high. The team’s strength will be its attacking play underpinned by iron motivation — it’s time to prove their worth.
How do the stats weigh on the players’ minds?
Statistics and forecasts can both give teams extra motivation and put pressure on them. Sweden, as the favorite, must prove their status, while Denmark will want to overturn the experts’ predictions and rewrite their own history.
The first whistle soon – Time for great emotions!
However, no prediction can say with 100% certainty how this match will unfold. The meeting of Sweden and Denmark is unique, full of history, spectacular personalities, and footballing quality. One thing is certain: we are in for a spectacle that could long remain in the memory of all football fans. Ultimately, football is a wonderful game precisely because it tends to escape mathematical analysis.
Who will win the Scandinavian clash and take the first step toward the dream of a championship? We await the first whistle!
