Norway vs Italy in Euro 2025 – Preview & Score Prediction

Morocco World

16-07-2025

Norway begin the Euro 2025 quarter-finals tonight against Italy, aiming to end a 25-year wait for major tournament glory.
Manager Gemma Grainger's side qualified with a flawless group-stage campaign, beating Switzerland, Finland and Iceland to become the first team into the last eight. But despite their perfect record, defensive frailties have raised eyebrows. Norway were forced to come from behind against hosts Switzerland and conceded three goals in a 4-3 win over Iceland.
The win, however, has sparked a selection dilemma. Midfielder Signe Gaupset, 20, impressed off the bench and could start tonight. NRK reports that the Brann youngster will feature in the starting XI. Grainger remained coy but noted: 'With Signe, the Iceland performance, that wasn't a surprise to any of us. We see Signe train every day, and that's how she is.'
Norway's attacking depth is among the best in the tournament. Ada Hegerberg, who was rested last match, returns alongside Caroline Graham Hansen, Frida Maanum and Guro Reiten. Yet questions linger over cohesion and consistency. Two years ago, Norway exited the World Cup in the last 16 after a fractious campaign. Hansen said at the time she felt 'bypassed.'
'It's an incredibly big moment for us,' Hegerberg said ahead of the match. 'We want to grab the opportunity to be in the top four in Europe. That would be incredible.'
Italy finished second in Group B behind Spain and have been compact and efficient, if blunt in front of the goal. Their only defeat came against the reigning world champions. The Azzurre last made the semi-finals of a major tournament in 1997 and are looking to end that drought.
'They're a good team and they've developed their women's game a lot,' said Hegerberg. 'It'll be very cool to play such an important football nation.'
Grainger praised Italy's defensive discipline and structure. 'They're very well-organised, as you would expect from an Italian team, and have a strong back five,' she said. 'From an attacking perspective, they get numbers in the box and are very forward-thinking.'
Italy head coach Andrea Soncin remained upbeat. 'There are no favourites. It will be a very balanced match,' he said. 'We need focus and concentration, but the girls must feel free to express their qualities. That gives us confidence.'
Norway's last semi-final appearance came in 2013. Italy haven't reached that stage since 1997. The last two meetings between the sides ended in draws, suggesting tonight's clash in Geneva could be a close-run affair.
Score Prediction:
Norway's attacking quality may prove decisive, though Italy's organisation is likely to keep it close. A narrow win could send the Scandinavians into the semi-finals for the first time in over a decade.
Let's call it Norway 2–1 Italy