Everything you need to know about the Women’s Euros
The Women’s 2022 European Championships get underway on Wednesday as the best nations from around the continent compete for the coveted prize.
This year, the tournament will take place in England as Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses look to win on home soil. Find out everything you need to know from who is playing who, where you can watch the games and which sides you need to look out for.
When is the tournament and how many teams will be competing?
The tournament kicks off on Wednesday July 6, with the final taking place at Wembley Stadium on July 31. 16 teams will be competing in a bid to become the champions of Europe.
Which nations have qualified?
- England (host nation)
- Austria
- Norway
- Northern Ireland
- Germany
- Denmark
- Spain
- Finland
- Netherlands (current holders)
- Sweden
- Portugal *
- Switzerland
- France
- Belgium
- Italy
- Iceland
* Portugal replace Russia
What do the groups look like?
Group A: England, Austria, Norway, Northern Ireland
Group B: Germany, Denmark, Spain, Finland
Group C: Netherlands (holders), Sweden, Portugal, Switzerland
Group D: France, Italy, Belgium, Iceland
The top two nations from each group will advance to the knockout stage.
Which stadiums are hosting matches?
The Amex Stadium – Brighton
Brentford Community Stadium – Brentford
Manchester City Academy Stadium – Manchester
Old Trafford – Manchester
New York Stadium – Rotherham
Stadium MK – Milton Keynes
Bramall Lane – Sheffield
St Mary’s Stadium – Southampton
Leigh Sports Village – Leigh & Wigan
Wembley Stadium – London
Who to look out for?
Alexia Putellas – Spain
One of the biggest talents in women’s football right now, the 27-year-old could be key in helping take Spain all the way to glory.
A born winner and the current Ballon d’Or holder, Putellas is the link between defence and attack. Whenever she has the ball, things will happen and more often than not, her performance dictates the final result.
Vivianne Miedema – Netherlands
If the Netherlands are to retain their Euros title, then the form of Vivianne Miedema will likely have a huge say on that matter.
The free-scoring forward is lethal in front of goal, the epitome of only needing one chance to win a game for her side. Breaking all sorts of records, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see her in contention for the golden boot come the end of the tournament.
Lauren Hemp – England
At 21-years-old, Lauren Hemp is one of the younger members of Sarina Wiegman’s squad, but don’t let that distract you from the fact that she is also one of most important members.
The Manchester City winger was voted as the PFA Young Women’s Player of the Year in four of the last five seasons and dazzles fans with her electric displays.
She will get fans inside the stadiums and watching at home off their seats and could be fundamental in taking the Lionesses all the way to glory.
Related links:
- Sarina Wiegman: Euros are an opportunity to show just how good we are
- Vivianne Miedema explains why she almost retired at 18
- US Soccer reaches historic equal pay agreement with men’s and women’s teams
