The Netherlands went into the last matchday as group winners. But Sweden was breathing down “Oranje” – and stole their first place.
The Netherlands defeated Switzerland 4-1 and still lost top spot in Group C. Because in the parallel game, Sweden beat Portugal 5-0 and passed “Oranje” due to the better goal difference.
The Netherlands will meet France in the quarter-finals. A real top match between two title favourites. Sweden meets the second in Group D. That’s Iceland at the moment, but Italy and Belgium also have good chances.
Switzerland’s Ana-Maria Crnogorčević initially scored an own goal in Sheffield (49′). Geraldine Reuteler from Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt equalized (53rd). After that, the outsider urged that Switzerland would have overtaken them if they won. But Romée Leuchter (84th, 90th + 4) and Victoria Pelova (90th + 5) made the decision in the final phase.
Sweden’s quarter-final opponent is still pending
Sweden easily beat Portugal 5-0 (3-0) in Leigh. Filippa Angeldal (21′, 45′) gave the favorites the lead with a brace, Carole Costa scored an own goal before the break (45’+7′). Kosovare Asllani (54′, hand penalty) and Stina Blackstenius (90’+1′) scored after the change.
The Swedes’ quarter-final opponents will be determined on Monday. Iceland, Belgium and Italy battle it out for second in Group D behind France.