Kosola’s Stunning Goal Secures Victory for Finland Over Iceland in Women’s Euro 2025 Opener

In the opening game of the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship, Finland triumphed over Iceland with a narrow 1-0 victory in Group A, held in Thun, Switzerland. This marked Finland’s first win at the finals since 2009.

Despite Iceland achieving their highest-ever FIFA ranking, they displayed signs of struggle during their Euro debut, particularly in a lacklustre first half where Finland dominated play, with Katariina Kosola looking especially threatening.

On two separate occasions, she aimed for the top right corner after cutting in from the left flank, but was unable to find the target. Another attempt was expertly tipped around the post by Iceland’s goalkeeper, Cecilia Runarsdottir.

Thorsteinn Halldorsson’s team struggled to create chances, yet they nearly broke the deadlock before half-time. Initially, Sveindis Jonsdottir’s long throw was flicked towards goal at the near post by Glodis Viggosdottir, compelling Anna Koivunen to make a sharp save. Subsequently, Emma Koivisto’s desperate slide was crucial in blocking a close-range shot from Sandra Jessen at the back post.

Before the second half commenced, Iceland faced a setback with the injury of their captain and key defender Viggosdottir, who required treatment on two occasions during the first half.

Nevertheless, Jonsdottir’s long throw nearly resulted in a breakthrough again, but Koivunen was alert enough to deny Ingibjorg Sigurdardottir, while Koivisto made another vital stop to prevent Alexandra Johannsdottir’s follow-up.

Any build-up of momentum for Iceland quickly dissipated when Hildur Antonsdottir received a red card after picking up her second yellow in just six minutes for a late tackle on Eveliina Summanen.

With the numerical advantage, the Boreal Owls made their presence felt, as Summanen assisted Kosola, who cut inside from the left and finally found the target, hitting the top corner despite Runarsdottir getting a hand to the shot.

This proved to be the decisive blow, as Iceland fell to their ninth defeat in 14 Euro finals matches, extending their worrying streak to just one win in their last 12 games.

On the other hand, Finland has made a stellar start, aiming for improvement after exiting at the group stage in their last two appearances at this tournament.

Finland’s next challenge will be against Norway in Sion on Sunday, followed by their group stage finale against the hosts.