Wales vs Netherlands – UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 Group D Preview
Key details ahead of this Group D encounter: kick-off time, TV coverage, team news, lineups, players to watch, and more
Lucerne, Switzerland – July 5, 2025 – Tournament debutants Wales face a formidable test as they take on 2017 champions Netherlands in their opening match of UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. The clash at the Swissporarena in Lucerne is set to kick off at 18:00 CEST, with both sides aiming to start their campaign on the front foot.
Kick-off Time & How to Watch
- Date: Saturday, July 5, 2025
- Time: 18:00 CEST / 17:00 BST / 12:00 ET
- Venue: Swissporarena, Lucerne, Switzerland
TV Broadcast:
- Wales: BBC One, S4C
- Netherlands: NOS
- International: UEFA.tv (selected territories)
Match Preview
This match marks a historic moment for Wales, who are making their first-ever appearance at a major international women’s tournament. Led by head coach Rhian Wilkinson, the Welsh squad arrives in Switzerland full of belief after edging through the play-offs. All eyes will be on experienced stars like Jess Fishlock and Sophie Ingle to guide a determined, if untested, squad.
The Netherlands, winners of Euro 2017 and runners-up at the 2019 World Cup, remain one of Europe’s most formidable forces. Head coach Andries Jonker has rebuilt his side with a mix of experienced campaigners and promising young talent. With Vivianne Miedema returning to fitness, and players like Jill Roord and Victoria Pelova in midfield, the Dutch will expect to control proceedings and take maximum points.
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Team News
Wales:
- Jess Fishlock, 37, is likely to captain the side in midfield.
- Sophie Ingle is fit after recovering from injury earlier in the season.
- No major injury concerns reported ahead of the opener.
Netherlands:
- Vivianne Miedema is expected to start after scoring twice in a pre-tournament friendly.
- Jill Roord and Victoria Pelova will feature heavily in midfield.
- The Dutch defence, led by Dominique Janssen, looks settled.
Predicted Lineups
Wales (4–3–3):
Clark – Evans, Ladd, Green, Woodham – Ingle, Fishlock, James-Turner – Holland, Rowe, Cain
Netherlands (4–3–3):
Van Domselaar – Casparij, Janssen, Buurman, Brugts – Pelova, Kaptein, Roord – Van de Donk, Miedema, Beerensteyn
Players to Watch
- Jess Fishlock (Wales) – Wales’ most capped player, her experience will be vital in midfield.
- Sophie Ingle (Wales) – Offers calmness and leadership from a defensive midfield role.
- Vivianne Miedema (Netherlands) – One of Europe’s most prolific forwards, key to unlocking Wales’ defence.
- Victoria Pelova (Netherlands) – A rising star in Dutch football, capable of dictating tempo and finding space.
What the Coaches Say
Rhian Wilkinson (Wales):
“We’ve made history just by being here. But we’re not just tourists – we want to show we belong on this stage.”
Andries Jonker (Netherlands):
“Wales have earned their place. We must be focused, patient, and take our chances.”
Head-to-Head Record
- Last meeting: Netherlands 5–0 Wales (Friendly, 2017)
- Overall record: Netherlands 5 wins, Wales 0 wins, 0 draws
The Dutch hold a commanding record against Wales, but this will be their first competitive meeting.
