Pub gardens, community spirit, statement fashion, and the kind of girlhood that thrives in group chats and stretches into long summer evenings. That’s the heart of the Women’s Euros 2025, and we want you to be part of it.
The domestic season may be over, but international football is just getting started and we’re so here for it. With the tournament on the way, we’ve put together a no-fuss cheat sheet to help you feel fully in the know, because football is for everyone, and you deserve to feel part of it.
The Lionesses made history in 2022 when they lifted the trophy at Wembley, becoming European champions in front of a sold-out crowd. From packed pubs to unforgettable goals, that summer of women’s football took over the country, and now, it’s back for round two. This time, England return as reigning champions, with everything to prove.
The 2025 tournament will be hosted in Switzerland, best known for its Alpine views, luxury lifestyle and (let’s be honest) very good cheese. But this summer, it’s all about women’s football. It’s officially on the map, and the world will be watching.
Here’s everything you need to know before it all kicks off.
“We’re all here to play. We’re in the prime of our football careers.”
The herstory of football…
Women’s football didn’t suddenly arrive in 2022. The Lionesses’ historic Euro win was a landmark moment, but it stood on the shoulders of generations who refused to be sidelined. Women who trained after long shifts, who juggled multiple jobs to represent club and country. Activists and organisers who demanded access, equality, and visibility long before anyone paid attention. And the players who kept the game alive even when the system tried to shut it down.
In 1921, the Football Association banned women’s football, declaring it “unsuitable for females.” That ban lasted 50 years. But women didn’t wait quietly. In 1971, as the ban was finally lifted, a group of trailblazing players took part in COPA71, an unofficial Women’s World Cup held outside FIFA’s control. It drew crowds of over 100,000, one of the biggest audiences for a women’s sporting event at the time. Back in England, though, their defiance came at a cost. Captain Carol Wilson, just 19 years old, was banned from playing for a further six months.
The legacy of that ban lingered for decades, stunting the sport’s growth. But slowly, the tide turned. In 2022, England hosted the Women’s Euros and everything changed. Stadiums across the country were packed, and visibility exploded. UEFA confirmed a global audience of 365 million, more than doubling the 2017 tournament. The Lionesses went all the way, beating Germany 2–1 in the final. Chloe Kelly’s iconic celebration: shirt in hand, arms wide, Wembley roaring will live forever.
What made the win even more iconic? England’s men’s team have never won a EURO. The Lionesses became the first senior England side to win a major tournament since 1966.
Now, the 2025 tournament is here. It’s the first since England’s triumph, and Wales are making their EURO debut.
Here’s how it works: 16 teams, all having earned their place by qualifying through earlier matches, are split into four groups of four. Each team plays the others in their group, and the top two advance to the knockout stage. From there, it’s win or go home until one team lifts the trophy.
We spoke to the Lioness and Manchester United legend about preparations for the Euros, bouncing back from injury, and inspiring young girls and boys.
Who to look out for at the Euros 2025…
There’s something electric about international tournaments. It’s like your favourite TV characters from different shows all turning up for the same crossover episode. Think Nessa from Gavin & Stacey linking up with EastEnders’ Dot Cotton.
As always, big names are commanding attention, and none more so than England captain Leah Williamson. After leading the Lionesses to glory in 2022 and recently lifting the Champions League trophy with Arsenal, she returns to anchor England’s defence once again. All eyes will be on her to repeat history.
Then there’s Spain, reigning 2023 World Cup champions and stacked with talent. The standout? Aitana Bonmatí. The 2x Ballon d’Or winner (think the football equivalent of an Oscar, Emmy and Tony all rolled into one) is already tipped to be player of the tournament.
This summer marks a historic first for Wales. While many players have plenty of experience at club level, this will be the first time the Welsh national team has ever qualified for a major tournament, like actors who’ve starred in many regional productions but are only now getting their first West End show. Two players especially deserve the spotlight: Jess Fishlock and Sophie Ingle.
Jess has 162 caps for Wales (meaning she has played 162 official international matches). She made her international debut back in 2006, and after nearly two decades representing her country, this summer she’ll finally get her moment on the big stage.
Sophie Ingle’s journey is equally inspiring. With 141 caps and a career at the top level, her EUROs spot looked unlikely after suffering an ACL tear in September. But after Wales secured qualification in February, beating the Republic of Ireland, she fought back, determined to be fit in time. Her return is nothing short of remarkable.
As for rising stars? Keep an eye on Spain’s Claudia Pina. A dynamite impact sub for Barcelona, she’s got the ability to flip a match the moment she steps on the pitch.
This summer, the stage is huge, and these are just a few of the players ready to steal the spotlight.
78% of teenage girls have stopped playing sports because of their periods.
Friendships and rivalries
One of the most beautiful things about women’s football is the power of connection: genuine, visible friendship that extends far beyond the pitch. Unlike the often guarded dynamic seen in the men’s game, the women’s game wears its heart on its sleeve. So when those close-knit bonds get tested by national colours, the drama is just as emotional as it is competitive.
This summer, expect friendships and relationships to be put to the test on the biggest stage.
All eyes will be on England, the reigning champions, and tournament hosts Switzerland. Which is why one of the most anticipated matchups could come if their captains go head-to-head: Arsenal teammates Leah Williamson and Lia Wälti. The two are best friends off the pitch and leaders for their respective nations. Watching them line up on opposite sides in a high-stakes match? Unmissable.
Women’s football is also proudly prominent in the queer community, and that means it’s not just friendships crossing battle lines, but relationships too. One of the most high-profile examples?
England vs. the Netherlands. English forward Beth Mead will face her long-term partner, Dutch superstar Vivianne Miedema, who also happens to be the Netherlands’ all-time top scorer across both the men’s and women’s games. This isn’t their first footballing face-off, either: Miedema recently left Arsenal (and Mead) to join Manchester City. So between the two of them and their lovely cocker spaniel Myle, they’re well used to navigating this on-pitch rivalry.
For Wales, there’s a friendship story close to home. Ffion Morgan and Ella Powell, both Bristol City teammates and best friends, are heading into their first major tournament together. The pair are inseparable on and off the pitch, often seen on TikTok, with Ffion even featuring Ella on her YouTube channel. Their journey from clubmates to international teammates makes their debut on this stage even more special.
And then, of course, there are the classic rivalries. England vs. Wales on 13th July is set to be a fierce battle of the nations. Wales, in their first-ever Euros, will want to prove themselves. And there’s no forgetting England vs. Spain. After Spain broke English hearts in the 2023 World Cup final with a 1–0 win, there’s everything to play for in a potential rematch, or revenge…
In this tournament, friendships run deep, but when the whistle blows, it’s all business.
Get involved…
Women’s football fan culture is truly something special: warm, welcoming, and full of energy. It’s family-friendly, queer-friendly, and perfect for newcomers. Whether you’re bringing the kids, heading out with your mates, or flying solo, the atmosphere is inclusive and electric.
You’ll hear catchy chants echoing through Europe, with fans proudly singing their teams’ anthems and building traditions unique to the women’s game. It’s about more than just the match; it’s a celebration of community and connection.
Watch parties and pub showings are popping up across England and Wales, bringing fans together to cheer live, celebrate goals, and soak up the tournament buzz. Whether it’s a lively pub or an intimate gathering, the energy will be contagious.
And of course, social media is the place to be for all things Women’s EURO. Following teams, players, and fan pages to stay connected and share the excitement.
At Girls Watch Girls Play, we’re not just about the players on the pitch. We turn the camera to the stands, capturing the energy, the passion, and the amazing community that makes women’s football so special. You’ll find us bringing that vibe to life on Instagram and TikTok, sharing why we and so many others truly love the game. Plus, tune into our podcast on YouTube and Spotify for insider chats and all the latest news, so you’re always in the know.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering women’s football, this welcoming community and these spaces are the perfect place to feel connected and be part of something unforgettable this summer.
Look, don’t be intimidated. Women’s football is for everyone. So next time you’re at the pub and some random bloke tries to quiz you on the offside rule, just smile and ask him how many times the men’s team has actually won the Euros. Spoiler: it’s 0.
Get in there, join the fun, and own it. The game’s growing, the energy is contagious, and the community is waiting for you. So grab your mates, find a watch party, or head to a match and be part of something truly brilliant this summer.
We spoke to the OG of women's football to talk self-belief, inspiring young people, and her burgeoning poetry career.
