Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
In the second round of the Women's European Championship group stage, Norway and Finland will clash in an intriguing encounter. The match will take place in Sion on Sunday, 6 July, with kickoff scheduled for 18:00 Central European Time. I'm offering a bet on the winner of this game.
Match preview
It may come as a surprise to some, but Norway's women's national team ranks among the most decorated sides in Europe and is once again considered a strong contender to advance from the group stage. The team boasts a powerful attack led by European club stars Caroline Graham Hansen and Ada Hegerberg.
The Norwegians favor an aggressive, vertical style of play, focusing on the flanks where they consistently create chances through dribbling and crosses. Ahead of the European Championship, the Scandinavian side finished second in UEFA Nations League A group, trailing only France.
Over six matches in that tournament, Norway conceded just five goals, but only managed to score four. Their qualifying campaign for the continental finals was shaky, but they showcased their true power in the playoffs. First, Norway hammered Albania with a staggering 14 goals, then put seven past Northern Ireland.
In the opening round, Norway showed great physical condition and reaffirmed their favorite status against Switzerland. Hege Riise's squad pulled off a come-from-behind 2-1 win, although Hegerberg missed a penalty.
Finland enter this tournament as typical underdogs, but the team is renowned for its organization and commitment. The Finns rely on disciplined defending and quick counter-attacks, banking on physical strength and cohesive backline play.
However, Finland's main issue remains converting chances and transitioning from defense to attack. The squad often lacks pace and creativity in the final third, though there are several players representing top European clubs.
Against stronger opponents, Finland usually play it safe, trying to hold out for a draw as long as possible and capitalizing on rare opportunities. Still, they should not be underestimated — with solid defending and a well-executed set piece, they are capable of springing a surprise.
In their opening match, Finland showed resilience and came away with success. Their clash against Iceland ended in a narrow 1-0 victory, influenced by an opponent's red card.
Match facts
- Norway have won just two of their last six matches.
- Finland have scored in each of their last five games.
- Norway average 0.8 goals per match, while Finland average 1.8 goals per match.
Probable lineups
- Norway: Fiskerstrand, Bjelde, Hansen, Mjelde, Lund, Boe Risa, Graham, Engen, Reiten, Ildhusoy, Hegerberg.
- Finland: Koivunen, Kuikka, Koivisto, Nyström, Tinnilä, Oling, Summanen, Kosola, Siren, Sellström, Franssi.
H2H
In the last nine head-to-head meetings between these teams, there have been two draws and seven wins for Norway.
Prediction
Norway have the edge both in terms of quality and individual talent. Finland will find it tough to contain their opponents' attacks for the full 90 minutes. My bet is on a Norway victory.
