UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 preview: Belgium

Photo: Belgian Red Flames

Belgium haven’t always been a dominant force in women’s football. However, a thrilling 3-2 win over England in April 2025 has reignited hopes ahead of this summer's European championship.

Known as the red flames, Belgium are aiming to spark a strong tournament run under a new leadership. 

Belgium are known for their disciplined defensive structure, built around a solid backline and a tactical, possession based approach.

Their defensive organisation will be key as they come up against some of Europe's toughest teams. 

In 2017 they qualified for their first major tournament and then went on to win their first trophy in 2022, the Pinatar cup.

Belgium have been drawn into group B, where they’ll face a challenging trio of opponents:

Spain: current reigning world champions

Italy: a very technically gifted team

Portugal: unpredictable but dangerous

It may be a tough group, but Belgium has true experience and talent to compete. 

Squad:

Belgium's 2025 Euros squad consists of: 

Goalkeepers: Femke Bastien, Nicky Evrard, Lisa Lichtfus

Defenders: Janice Cayman, Laura Deloose, Isabelle Lliano, Jill Janssens, Sari Kees, Zenia Mertens, Davina Philtjens, Amber Tysiak

Midfielders: Tine de Caigny, Marie Detruyer, Elena Dhont, Kassandra Missipo, Justine Vanhaevermaet, Sarah Wijnants

Forwards: Jassina Blom, Hannah Eurlings, Mariam toloba, Ella Van Kerkhoven, Tessa Wullaert

Head coach:

At the helm is Elísabet Gunnarsdóttir, an experienced Icelandic coach who took charge earlier this year.

Euro 2025 will mark her first major tournament with Belgium and she will be eager to make an immediate impact on the European stage. 

With rising stars and experienced leaders such as Tessa Wullaert and Janice Cayman, Belgium has the tools to shine this summer.

Their blend of experience and youthful talent makes them a potential dark horse in one of the tournament’s toughest groups.