Norway captain Ada Hegerberg has urged her side to “relish the moment” as they take on Italy in the first quarter-final at Euro 2025 on Wednesday in Geneva, Switzerland (20:00 BST).
Hegerberg played in the 2013 final as two-time winners Norway lost 1-0 to Germany, but the Norwegians then failed to make it out of the group phase in the next two tournaments.
But in 2025 they finished top of Group A, fighting back from going behind to beat Switzerland 2-1, followed by 2-1 and 4-3 victories over Finland and Iceland respectively to qualify with maximum points.
“We can enjoy being in such a strong position,” said Hegerberg. “We’ve had very good energy, everyone has contributed and we want to ride that wave and draw on the good sense of unity we have. I’m very proud of the group, the way we have believed and set up as a team.
“It’s a very important game – there’s a lot at stake but we want to relish the moment. To get a top-four place in Europe would be amazing.”
Norway struggled for team unity at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, exiting in the last 16 under Hege Riise, but since January 2024 have been managed by Gemma Grainger, the only English boss at Euro 2025.
Italy have never won the tournament, but lost in the final in 1993 and 1997. This year they have beaten Belgium 1-0, drawn 1-1 with Portugal and lost 3-1 to world champions Spain to progress as Group B runners-up.
“Many fans will come and watch the match and we know we have a great responsibility in order to create and develop the passion,” said Italy head coach Andrea Soncin.
“The preparation of the match is like all the other games. We’re experiencing a magic moment together and we have a strong determination and confidence for this match.”
Midfielder Manuela Giugliano added: “We’ve tried to create a positive energy and an energy I could not feel in the past. Our group is a beautiful group and a positive group. We’re all united to achieve the same goal.”
The winner of this match will secure a semi-final against Sweden or England, who play their quarter-final in Zurich on Thursday (20:00).
Norway v Italy is live on BBC One, iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and there is also live commentary on Radio 5 Live.
