Pia Sundhage, a renowned figure in women’s football, is set to coach Switzerland as they host the 2025 European Championship. Formerly leading the USA to Olympic gold, Sundhage brings extensive experience and charisma to her new role. The Swiss team aims for significant improvement following past challenges, with Sundhage’s leadership seen as a transformative moment for women’s football in Switzerland. Her contract runs until the end of 2025, with potential for extension based on future success.
Pia Sundhage is a name synonymous with versatility in women’s football. The dynamic coach is currently gearing up to lead Switzerland as they host the European Championship finals in 2025.
It’s been a significant period since Silvia Neid held the reins as the national coach, leading the German team to their last title—a gold medal at the 2016 Olympic Games. Ironically, the team they triumphed over in Rio was Sweden, helmed by the charismatic Pia Sundhage.
As the DFB women prepare for a friendly match against Switzerland in Zurich this Friday at 8 PM, a fascinating narrative unfolds. Sundhage, now directing the Swiss squad, brings her vast experience and magnetic presence to the host nation of the upcoming European Championship. The 64-year-old’s charm and success make her an iconic figure in the sport, combining her love for music with her passion for football.
Christian Wück, who recently met Sundhage for the first time, expressed his admiration: ‘Meeting Pia Sundhage at the Nations League draw was truly special.’
A Memorable Encounter: Sundhage vs. Neid
The 2013 European Championship semi-final in Gothenburg remains etched in history, where Sundhage’s Sweden faced Neid’s Germany, resulting in a dramatic 1-0 victory for the German side thanks to Dzsenifer Marozsan’s goal. This match was one of the most thrilling in European Championship lore.
The emotional aftermath saw a nation in mourning for Sundhage, while Neid extended her sympathy. ‘Pia embodies the essence of football. She doesn’t just play it; she genuinely loves it.’ Neid, who days later celebrated her own team’s eighth European Championship title against Norway, recognized Sundhage’s profound influence on the sport.
Both coaches faced challenges as young girls in a male-dominated environment without role models. They became trailblazers, with Sundhage earning her place as an icon through 146 international matches and 71 goals, while Neid achieved 111 matches and 48 goals. Both were later honored by FIFA as World Coaches of the Year.
Olympic Glory with the USA
During her tenure with the United States team from 2008 to 2012, Sundhage secured two Olympic gold medals. Despite a surprising early exit with Brazil against Jamaica in the recent 2023 World Cup, her legacy remains untarnished.
Witnessing the Evolution of Women’s Football
Sundhage’s expertise is highly sought after, having worked in various countries like Norway and China. She has observed the rapid advancements in women’s football, identifying key areas of growth. With Switzerland set to host the 2025 European Championship from July 2 to July 27, her wealth of knowledge will be invaluable.
The Swiss men’s team faced challenges during the 2008 European Championship co-hosted with Austria, failing to progress past the group stage. Under Sundhage’s leadership, the Swiss women’s team aims for a different outcome, drawing on her unique coaching style and engaging personality, which once included entertaining singing performances during press events.
Turning Point for Swiss Women’s Football
Wück has noted the strides Swiss football has made as they prepare for their upcoming match: ‘The opponent employs a similar system to Australia, which will present us with challenges.’ It’s worth noting that Inka Grings, who struggled in her role earlier this year, was replaced after a disappointing record of only one victory in 14 matches.
As the Swiss Football Association sought a successor, discussions about Sundhage surfaced, but Wück was appointed initially. Ultimately, the SFV chose Sundhage, marking a pivotal moment for women’s football in Switzerland. ‘Pia Sundhage’s appointment is a landmark for Swiss women’s football,’ declared SFV President Dominique Blanc. Her contract extends through the end of 2025, and if the home European Championship proves successful, an extension could be on the horizon. A friendly win against Germany would undoubtedly be celebrated across Switzerland.