🔗 Share this article

Structural Changes

A quadrennium after the introduction of a group stage, the female European championship is experiencing further evolution. This revised structure includes an 18-team league phase replacing the previous 16-team group stage. In this innovative setup, every squad will participate in six matches against six varied adversaries with three home fixtures and three contests on foreign turf. Merely the leading quartet clubs gain direct entry for the quarter-finals, while positions five through twelve will compete in knockout rounds for the remaining four spots.

Wise Move?

Only future will reveal whether this change proves successful. Arriving merely forty-eight months subsequent to the effective preliminary round implementation feels somewhat hasty, but opinions could change if this revised league format provides excitement. The inclusion of two additional teams is widely welcomed as growth was essential to accommodate the significant development of women's football across Europe. This league phase also offers adaptability for additional growth. Change often brings initial discomfort, and we'll determine by the campaign's conclusion whether the transition period and supporter acclimatization were justified.

The broadcasting agreement with the streaming platform represents an improvement over former setups, providing wider availability and supplemented with free-to-air options that are crucial for growth if the competition aims to increase its profile.

Championship Contenders

The pursuit of Europe's elite championship has seldom been this unpredictable. Current title holders Arsenal are facing challenges after their impressive beginning under head coach Slegers, having lost ground in latest league games. Despite their European pedigree, their opening encounter against OL Lyonnes presents a substantial preliminary test.

Previous finalists Barcelona remain strong contenders for the competition they've mastered, having secured the title on three occasions in the past five years. Despite limited squad depth, they've started strongly in domestic competition, though their continental journey will test their resilience given rotation limitations.

German powerhouses Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich are locked in competition at the German league pinnacle, both maintaining undefeated records. However, it's been ten years since a Teutonic team achieved European glory. Eight-time champions OL Lyonnes have commenced perfectly in domestic action and face a crucial early test against Arsenal.

The London club might still be processing their semi-final defeat against Barcelona but remain determined to claim European glory. Their season start has been encouraging, though domestic performances haven't been entirely convincing.

The Red Devils' Chances

Marc Skinner's squad have successfully navigated preliminary stages to make their debut for the first time. Notable stalemates against domestic competitors demonstrate their capabilities, with defensive solidity being essential for their positive start. However, juggling various tournaments will challenge their depth, particularly with key absences until the holiday period. Additional resources will be required for continued continental progress. Their initial fixture list presents a daunting challenge with matches against multiple European giants.

Breakout Candidates

Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones has been entrusted with leading the line despite numerous options in the attacking roles. Four goals in five outings justifies the club's faith in their academy product. Continental playing time would be fully deserved and achievement appears probable.

Elsewhere, teenage sensation Lily Yohannes has transferred to OL Lyonnes from Ajax with high hopes. Having chosen international representation, the US youth has already impressed her talent with a first-match strike. Given opportunities in a talented squad, she could create substantial influence.

Arsenal's Katie Reid has been preferred over more experienced defenders following their captain's absence. Her physical presence, tactical awareness and positional understanding have garnered acclaim. While European readiness might be questioned, her league displays have warranted opportunity.

Championship Venue

The ultimate match will occur in Oslo at Ullevaal Stadion, home to the Scandinavian national side, scheduled for May 22-24, 2026. The stadium holding over twenty-seven thousand outbid competing bids from German and Scottish arenas to obtain organizational privileges for European football's premier women's event.