🔗 Share this article

What's Different?

Four years after the implementation of a preliminary round, the female European championship is experiencing further evolution. This revised structure features an 18-team league phase substituting the previous 16-team group stage. In this innovative setup, each team will compete in six matches against six varied adversaries with three home fixtures and three away encounters. Only the top four teams will automatically qualify for the quarter-finals, while teams ranked fifth to twelfth will compete in playoffs for the final four berths.

Wise Move?

Time will tell whether this change demonstrates merit. Arriving merely forty-eight months after the successful group stage introduction feels somewhat hasty, but perspectives may shift if this new league phase provides excitement. The inclusion of two additional teams is generally appreciated as growth was essential to accommodate the rapid progression of female soccer throughout the continent. This league phase also provides flexibility for future expansion. Modification typically creates initial discomfort, and we'll discover by season's end whether the transition period and fan adaptation proved worthwhile.

The broadcasting agreement with Disney+ represents an improvement over previous arrangements, offering greater accessibility and supplemented with free-to-air options that are crucial for growth if the tournament aims to enhance its visibility.

Championship Contenders

The race for Europe's elite championship has seldom been this unpredictable. Defending champions Arsenal are experiencing difficulties after their strong start under head coach Slegers, having dropped points in recent domestic matches. Despite their European pedigree, their opening encounter against the French giants presents a significant early challenge.

Previous finalists Barcelona remain formidable candidates for the tournament they've dominated, having secured the title on three occasions in the past five years. Notwithstanding a thin roster, they've commenced impressively in league play, though their European campaign will test their resilience given substitution constraints.

German powerhouses Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich are locked in competition at the German league pinnacle, both maintaining unbeaten streaks. However, it's been a decade since a German club won continental honors. Eight-time champions OL Lyonnes have commenced perfectly in domestic action and face a crucial early test against Arsenal.

The London club might still be recovering from their last-four elimination against Barcelona but remain resolute to claim European glory. Their campaign opening has been encouraging, though domestic performances haven't been completely persuasive.

The Red Devils' Chances

Marc Skinner's squad have effectively passed qualification rounds to enter the competition for the initial occasion. Impressive draws against domestic competitors demonstrate their potential, with defensive solidity being essential for their positive start. However, managing multiple competitions will challenge their depth, particularly with important players missing until Christmas. Additional resources will be required for sustained European development. Their opening schedule presents a formidable obstacle with matches against several continental powerhouses.

Breakout Candidates

Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones has been given leading the line despite multiple alternatives in the forward positions. Four goals in five appearances justifies the team's trust in their homegrown talent. European minutes would be completely warranted and achievement appears probable.

In other developments, teenage sensation Lily Yohannes has transferred to OL Lyonnes from Ajax with high hopes. Having selected national team allegiance, the US youth has already impressed her talent with a debut goal. Given opportunities in a talented squad, she could make significant impact.

Arsenal's Katie Reid has been selected ahead of veteran center-backs following Leah Williamson's injury. Her athletic attributes, game intelligence and positional understanding have drawn praise. While European readiness might be debated, her domestic performances have warranted opportunity.

Final Destination

The championship decider will take place in Oslo at the Norwegian national stadium, home to the Scandinavian national side, scheduled for late May 2026. The stadium holding over twenty-seven thousand prevailed over competing bids from German and Scottish arenas to obtain organizational privileges for European football's premier women's event.