Sweden, Germany Secure Euro 2025 Knockout Spots as Denmark, Poland Crash Out

Posted : 09 July 2025

Sweden booked their place in the Euro 2025 quarter-finals with a dominant 3-0 victory over Poland in Lucerne. The result, combined with Germany's 2-1 comeback win over Denmark earlier in the day, sees both sides move to six points and secure progression from Group C, while Poland and Denmark exit the competition with a game to spare.

Sweden, who were Euro champions in 1984, were in full control from the outset. They eventually broke the deadlock in the 28th minute when Stina Blackstenius headed home Johanna Rytting Kaneryd’s cross from six yards out. The lead was doubled early in the second half as veteran forward Kosovare Asllani netted her 49th international goal—another header from a pinpoint Rytting Kaneryd delivery. Lina Hurtig, recently released by Arsenal, sealed the win with a header from a corner in the 77th minute.

The Swedes overwhelmed Poland on the flanks, delivering 24 crosses in the first half alone. They struck the crossbar twice before scoring, with Rytting Kaneryd completely dominating her matchup against Martyna Wiankowska. All three goals coming via headers highlighted Sweden’s tactical superiority. Now unbeaten in 14 matches, Sweden top Group C on goal difference ahead of Germany and need only a draw in Saturday’s clash to secure first place. Poland, debutants at the tournament, will finish their campaign against Denmark, with both already eliminated.

Earlier in Basel, Germany also confirmed their spot in the last eight but not without drama. Facing Denmark, the eight-time champions fell behind in the 26th minute when Amalie Vangsgaard pounced on a loose ball and beat Ann-Katrin Berger at her near post. Germany thought they had equalised through Klara Buhl, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside. A penalty decision in Germany’s favour was also overturned after replays showed the handball occurred outside the box.

The second half saw a resurgent German side. They were awarded a penalty via VAR, which Sjoeke Nusken calmly converted in the 56th minute. Momentum stayed with Germany, and in the 66th minute, Lea Schuller scored the winner following a controversial moment. Denmark’s Emma Snerle suffered a head injury from a teammate’s clearance, yet the referee did not stop play. Germany capitalised, and Schuller found the net during the continuation of play.

Denmark’s head coach Andree Jeglertz, who will take over at Manchester City after the tournament, criticised the officiating. "If you have a serious head injury, you need to stop the game," he said, expressing disbelief at referee Catarina Campos' decision.

With these results, Sweden and Germany sit atop Group C with six points apiece. They will face each other to determine the group winner, while Denmark and Poland will bow out after their final group-stage match.

Sweden, Germany Secure Euro 2025 Knockout Spots as Denmark, Poland Crash Out

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