Iceland head to Switzerland with quiet confidence – and high expectations. Despite being drawn in a tricky group featuring hosts Switzerland, neighbours Norway, and Finland, Thorsteinn Halldórsson’s side believes it has what it takes to finish top.
What to Expect
Long regarded as plucky outsiders, Iceland now carry themselves like a team with unfinished business. After drawing all three matches at Euro 2022, they’re determined not to settle for moral victories this time.
Iceland stormed through qualifying—finishing just behind Germany but beating them 3-0 in Reykjavík – Iceland showed they can mix it with the continent’s elite. But since then, injuries and a barren run of form (no wins since July 2024) have tempered expectations. Still, recent draws against Norway and Switzerland hint at a side that remains hard to beat and could be poised to peak at the right time.
A strong qualifying run—highlighted by that emphatic win over Germany—gave Iceland real momentum, but injuries to key players and a 10-match winless streak have disrupted that rhythm since the turn of the year. Five of those matches were draws, including two against now-group mates Norway and Switzerland, offering mixed signals.
The good news is that their defeats came only against top-tier opposition (USA, France, Denmark), and fitness levels are improving. Glódís Perla Viggósdóttir, Amanda Andradóttir and Diljá Zomers have both returned from injury in time for the Euros, which should be a big boost.
Key Players
Captain GlódísPerla Viggósdóttir is the cornerstone of Iceland’s defence. The Bayern Munich centre-back, recently named Iceland’s Sportsperson of the Year and the first Icelander ever nominated for the Ballon d’Or, leads by example with her authority and consistency. This will be her fourth European Championship, and her return from a knee injury in May is a major boost.
Up front, Sveindís Jane Jónsdóttir brings pace, directness, and set-piece danger which will make a massive difference come the knockout stages. Her long throw-ins are a unique weapon, and her ability to stretch defences on the counter will be crucial if Iceland are to progress deep into the competition.
Coach
Thorsteinn Halldórsson
Appointed in 2021, Halldórsson—or “Steini” as he’s affectionately known—has brought discipline, simplicity, and belief to the national setup. A former no-nonsense midfielder, he earned his shot at the top after a glittering spell in charge of Breidablik’s women’s team. Known for his calm demeanour and clear tactical messaging, Halldórsson shrugged off criticism after Euro 2022 and has rebuilt a competitive, cohesive unit. His next challenge: turning competitive draws into knockout-stage wins.
FIFA Ranking: 14
Fixtures:
July 2, 2025: vs Finland – Stockhorn Arena, Thun, 6pm
July 6, 2025: vs Switzerland – Stadion Wankdorf, Bern, 9pm
July 10, 2025: vs Norway- Arena Thun, Thun, 9pm