🔗 Share this article

Key Modifications

A quadrennium after the implementation of a preliminary round, the female European championship is experiencing further evolution. This revised structure includes an 18-team league phase substituting the former sixteen-team group format. In this innovative setup, every squad will compete in half a dozen games versus six different opponents with three matches at their own ground and three contests on foreign turf. Only the top four clubs gain direct entry for the quarter-finals, while teams ranked fifth to twelfth will compete in knockout rounds for the final four berths.

Is This Beneficial?

Only future will reveal if this modification demonstrates merit. Arriving merely forty-eight months subsequent to the effective preliminary round implementation feels somewhat hasty, but perspectives may shift if this revised league format delivers entertainment. The inclusion of two additional teams is generally appreciated as expansion was necessary to support the rapid progression 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 adjustment phase and fan adaptation were justified.

The broadcasting agreement with the streaming platform constitutes an enhancement over former setups, providing wider availability and supplemented with terrestrial broadcast opportunities that are essential for expansion if the tournament aims to enhance its visibility.

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 manager Renée Slegers, having dropped points in latest league games. Notwithstanding their continental experience, their opening encounter against OL Lyonnes presents a substantial preliminary test.

Previous finalists Barcelona remain strong contenders for the tournament they've dominated, having secured the title on three occasions in the past five years. Despite limited squad depth, they've started strongly in league play, though their continental journey will challenge their endurance given substitution constraints.

German powerhouses Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich are locked in competition at the Bundesliga summit, both maintaining unbeaten streaks. However, it's been a decade since a Teutonic team achieved European glory. Multiple title winners OL Lyonnes have commenced perfectly in domestic action and face a crucial early test against Arsenal.

Chelsea might still be recovering from their semi-final defeat against Barcelona but remain resolute to claim European glory. Their campaign opening has been promising, though league displays haven't been completely persuasive.

The Red Devils' Chances

Marc Skinner's squad have effectively passed qualification rounds to enter the competition for the initial occasion. Notable stalemates against domestic competitors demonstrate their potential, with defensive solidity being essential for their positive start. However, managing multiple competitions will test their resources, particularly with key absences until the holiday period. Additional resources will be necessary for sustained European development. Their initial fixture list presents a daunting challenge with matches against several continental powerhouses.

Breakout Candidates

Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones has been entrusted with spearheading the attack despite multiple alternatives in the forward positions. A quartet of strikes in five appearances justifies the club's faith in their homegrown talent. Continental playing time would be fully deserved and success seems likely.

Elsewhere, teenage sensation Lily Yohannes has transferred to OL Lyonnes from Ajax with high hopes. Having selected national team allegiance, the American teenager has already impressed her talent with a debut goal. Given chances in a talented squad, she could make significant impact.

Arsenal's Katie Reid has been preferred over veteran center-backs following their captain's absence. Her athletic attributes, game intelligence and positional understanding have garnered acclaim. While continental preparation might be debated, her league displays have warranted opportunity.

Final Destination

The championship decider will occur in Oslo at the Norwegian national stadium, venue for the Norwegian national team, scheduled for May 22-24, 2026. The 27,182-capacity venue outbid competing bids from German and Scottish arenas to obtain organizational privileges for European football's elite female competition.