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

Finland triumphed in their opening encounter of the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship, defeating Iceland 1-0 in Group A at Thun, Switzerland, marking their first victory at this stage since 2009.

Although Iceland is enjoying their highest-ever FIFA ranking, the signs of a difficult 2025 season were evident in a lacklustre first-half performance. Finland were quick out of the blocks, with Katariina Kosola proving to be a significant threat.

On two occasions, she attempted to score with shots aimed at the top right corner after cutting in from the left flank, but missed the target on both counts. Another attempt saw Icelandic goalkeeper Cecilia Runarsdottir make a fine save, tipping the effort around the post.

Thorsteinn Halldorsson’s squad struggled to create opportunities, although they arguably came closest to breaking the deadlock before the half-time whistle. Firstly, Glodis Viggosdottir flicked a long throw from Sveindis Jonsdottir towards the goal at the near post, forcing a smart reaction save from Finland’s Anna Koivunen. Moments later, Emma Koivisto made a vital slide to block Sandra Jessen’s shot from close range.

Iceland faced further challenges before the second half resumed, losing their captain and key defender Viggosdottir to injury after she had already received treatment twice during the first half.

Despite this setback, Jonsdottir’s long throw almost provided the break they needed, but Koivunen was on hand to deny Ingibjorg Sigurdardottir, while Koivisto made another crucial block to stop Alexandra Johannsdottir’s follow-up attempt.

However, any momentum Iceland were building was soon thwarted, as Hildur Antonsdottir was dismissed after receiving her second yellow card within a mere six minutes for a late tackle on Eveliina Summanen.

This numerical advantage was swiftly exploited by the Boreal Owls, with Summanen setting up Kosola, who cut inside from the left and finally found the target, slotting the ball into the top corner even though Runarsdottir managed to get a hand to the shot.

This proved to be the decisive goal, leading to Iceland’s ninth defeat in 14 matches at the UEFA finals and extending their worrying streak to just one win from the last 12 matches.

For Finland, this victory signals a strong start as they aim to improve upon their previous two tournament appearances, which both ended in the group stage.

Next, Finland will face Norway in Sion on Sunday, followed by a final group stage match against the tournament hosts.