Switzerland's Pia Sundhage Confident Of Major Upset Against Spain In Euro 2025 Quarter-Finals

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Switzerland's head coach, Pia Sundhage, is confident her team can surprise many by defeating Spain in the Euro 2025 quarter-finals. Switzerland advanced to the knockout phase for the first time after drawing 1-1 with Finland, securing second place in Group A behind Norway. Previously, their only knockout appearances at major tournaments ended in round of 16 exits at the FIFA World Cup: losing 0-1 to Canada in 2015 and 1-5 to Spain in 2023.

This match is unique as it pits the host nation against the reigning world champions for the first time in a European Championship. Sundhage remains unfazed by this challenge. She believes Switzerland can achieve a significant upset, similar to what their men's team accomplished during the 2010 World Cup. "I would say this is the biggest [upset] ever," Sundhage stated. "And the reason I'm saying that is because we're going to play against the world champions."

Sundhage emphasised teamwork as crucial for success, promising that if they work together, they have a chance. "The most important thing is that we do our very best," she said. "We can't do more; we do our very best in the quarter-final in Bern." She also mentioned that Switzerland had watched videos of that memorable 2010 World Cup match for inspiration.

Spain aims to secure their first Euros title after winning the World Cup in 2023 and lifting the inaugural Nations League last year. This marks Spain's fourth appearance in the Euros quarter-finals, having been eliminated at this stage previously: against Norway (1-3) in 2013, Austria (0-0, lost on penalties) in 2017, and England (1-2) in 2022.

Aitana Bonmati's return to full fitness boosts Spain's hopes. Hospitalised with viral meningitis before the tournament, she made her first start against Italy and feels ready for the knockouts. "I never thought I wouldn't be here," Bonmati shared. "I was frustrated... but luckily enough, I'm ready to play."

The winner of this match will face either France or Germany in the semi-final. Bonmati is eager to help Spain make history: "It's a new challenge for us; we have the possibility to be in the semi-finals." Her goal is clear: continue writing Spain's name into football history.

As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, anticipation builds around whether Switzerland can defy expectations or if Spain will advance further towards their first Euros triumph.