Germany began their UEFA Women’s Euros 2025 campaign with a solid 2‑0 victory over tournament debutants Poland on Friday evening in St Gallen. In a well-attended Arena St Gallen under warm Swiss skies, Die Nationalelf combined second-half quality with steely discipline to claim top spot in Group C straight out of the gate.
The opening 45 minutes were characterised by Germany’s patient probing and Poland’s resolute defending. Both sides created opportunities — with Polish keeper Kinga Szemik, pulling off multiple smart saves to keep the score level at the break.
The breakthrough came seven minutes into the second half when Jule Brand unleashed a curling effort into the top corner in the 52nd minute — her powerful strike proving too much for Szemik. Brand continued her influence moments later, teeing up Lea Schüller to nod in the second from close range in the 66th minute.
Despite Germany’s dominance after the restart, Poland didn’t back down. Striker Ewa Pajor, in particular, tested Ann-Katrin Berger with a couple of well-placed headers and shots, though nothing found the net. Meanwhile, the Germans absorbed those threats and held firm to preserve the clean sheet.
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What’s next
Germany now prepare for a tough encounter against Denmark in Basel, hoping to build momentum and perhaps rotate following the injury to captain Giulia Gwinn, who was substituted with a knee issue before half-time. Poland face Sweden in Lucerne, where only a win will keep their hopes alive.
Remaining Group C fixtures
Tuesday 8th
17:00: Germany vs Denmark – St. Jakob-Park, Basel, BBC iPlayer
20:00: Poland vs Sweden – Allmend Stadion Luzern, Lucerne, BBC iPlayer
Saturday 12th
20:00: Sweden vs Germany – Stadion Letzigrund, Zurich, ITVX
20:00: Poland vs Denmark – Allmend Stadion Luzern, Lucerne, ITVX
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