Finland’s Quarter-Final Aspirations Suffer Blow in Close Defeat to Norway

Finland suffered a narrow defeat, going down 2-1 in Group A of the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship after Caroline Graham Hansen netted a late winner for Norway. This result sees Norway accumulate six points and edge towards the Quarter-finals, while Finland remains on three points.

Having kept clean sheets in five of their last seven matches, Finland would have been frustrated to concede an early goal to Norway just three minutes into the game in Sion.

Eva Nystrom inadvertently directed the ball into her own net after failing to control her footing when attempting to intercept Graham Hansen’s low cross.

In response, seasoned forward Linda Sallstrom led Finland’s charge, striking on the half volley to force a fine save from Cecilie Fiskerstrand at the near post.

While Finland posed a threat in the attacking third, they were fortunate not to be further behind as Norway hit the woodwork twice, just before Anna Koivunen made a crucial save to deny Ada Hegerberg.

Finland capitalised on Norway’s inability to extend their lead, stealing possession in the opponent’s half and setting up Oona Sevenius, who unleashed a powerful first-time shot into the top corner.

Rejuvenated by their equaliser, Marko Saloranta’s side carried their momentum into half-time, prompting Gemma Grainger to bring on Signe Gaupset and Lisa Naalsund for the second half.

Disappointingly for Grainger, it was Finland who registered the first shot on target after the break, with Katariina Kosola’s powerful long-range effort forcing Fiskerstrand to tip the ball around the post.

The Fiorentina goalkeeper continued her impressive performance, making another excellent save to deflect Eveliina Summanen’s goal-bound shot onto the far post, as Norway struggled to mitigate the mounting pressure from their confident opponents.

Ultimately, Finland’s missed opportunities came back to haunt them when Graham Hansen delivered the decisive moment in the 84th minute. The Barcelona ace cleverly manoeuvred to send an attempted cross off the far post, leaving the Finnish side heartbroken.

Norway can secure progression to the knockout stages if Switzerland earns at least a point against Iceland later today, while Finland finds themselves three points off the top, with their aspirations for the Quarter-finals depending on their final group match against Switzerland on Thursday.