If England thought France was tough, they’re in for another battle.
Thursday night’s quarter-final clash with Sweden (8pm BST, July 17) has all the makings of a repeat disaster — unless the Lionesses have truly learned from their group stage wake-up call.
Sweden are fast, confident, and ruthless in front of goal. England? Still searching for rhythm. This could go either way — and it will come down to more than just stats.
The Setup: A Clash of Styles
Let’s be real — this is France 2.0 for England.
Sweden have been one of the standout teams of the tournament, breezing through their group with eight goals scored and just one conceded. They’re sharp, clinical, and relentless.
- Their 3–0 win over Poland? All goals from corners.
- Their performance against Germany? Dominant — and full of world-class finishes.
- Their entire system? Fast-paced, high-press, counter-attacking football.
England, on the other hand, are still trying to impose control — but struggled badly against pace and pressure when they faced France. Sweden will press hard and stretch England wide and deep.
What You Need to Know
- Match: Sweden vs England
- Kick-Off: 8PM BST, Thursday 17 July
- EURO 2025 Quarter-Final
- Sweden have scored 8 goals and conceded just 1 so far
- England haven’t lost to Sweden since 2019 — but knockout football doesn’t care about history
Key Talking Points
Sweden’s Pace Will Be the Real Test
Sweden don’t just have pace in the final third — it’s everywhere. From their full-backs to their wingers, they press with speed and play with confidence. England’s lack of pace in defence and midfield is a real concern. If the Lionesses can’t keep up or kill the tempo, they could get pulled apart.
France Lessons Must Stick
England were exposed by France — physically and tactically. If they’ve learned from that, they’ll know to adjust shape, get tighter in midfield, and start faster. If not, they risk being run over by another high-tempo side.
It’s Not About Stats
Yes, England have the better recent record. Yes, they’ve beaten Sweden before. But this isn’t a group game, and knockout football is brutal. One off night, and it’s over. It all comes down to who shows up when the whistle blows.
My Take
This game has danger written all over it.
Sweden have swagger. They’ve been scoring in every way — set-pieces, open play, worldies from distance. They’re confident and they’ve got nothing to lose.
England? They’ve got everything to prove.
If England can control possession and dictate the tempo, they’ll have a chance. But if they get caught playing sideways, slow football again — this could be another long night. The midfield needs to be tighter. The subs need to come earlier. And the defensive shape needs to be disciplined.
Make no mistake: this is knockout football — and Sweden won’t forgive mistakes.
What Do You Think?
Can England step up and deliver a complete performance when it really matters?
Or will Sweden’s speed and confidence send the Lionesses home?
Let us know your thoughts on socials — @WSLChatter
