EURO 2009 FINAL - ENGLAND 2 - 6 GERMANY

Inka Grings and Birgit Prinz scored two goals apiece Thursday to lead defending champion Germany past England 6-2 in the women's European Championship final.

It was the fifth straight Euro title for two-time defending world champion Germany, which beat England for the 17th time in their last 19 meetings.

Germany were ruthless in attack where they took their chances when given and they outmuscled England in the midfield.

Goals from Karen Carney and Kelly Smith twice kept England in contention but the world champions were ultimately far too strong.

The game started badly for England as Germany went 2-0 up inside 21 minutes as first Birgit Prinz and then midfielder Melanie Behringer found the net.

At that stage it looked like it was going to be a stroll for the Germans, but England were not prepared to lie down and Carney halved the deficit within two minutes of Behringer's goal. Jill Scott then almost got England level before the break with a header that was cleared off the line by Behringer

Germany re-established their two-goal advantage six minutes into the second period when Simone Laudehr's shot hit the post and the ball was only cleared as far as Kim Kulig who finished with ease.

Hope Powell's side again showed their fighting mentality four minutes later when Carney slipped in a fine ball for Smith, who turned and finished brilliantly.

That was as close as England would get and goals in the final half hour from Grings, twice, and Prinz, who scored her 125th international goal, ensured that Germany lifted their fifth European title in succession and their seventh out of the last eight.

Inka Grings won the adidas Golden Boot as UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2009 finals top scorer – matching her feat of four years ago in England. She scored 6 goals in the Tournament and was named player of the match for the final.

Lineups:

England : Rachel Brown, Alex Scott, Faye White (C), Anita Asante, Casey Stoney, Karen Carney, Jill Scott, Fara Williams,Katie Chapman(Emily Westwood 86),Kelly Smith, Eniola Aluko (Lianne Sanderson 81)

Germany : Nadine Angerer,Linda Bresonik,Annike Krahn,Saskia Bartusiak,Babett Peter,Kerstin Garefrekes(Fatima Bajmaraj 83) , Simone Laudehr,Kim Kulig,Melanie Behringer(Célia Okoyino da Mbabi 60),Inka Grings, Brigit Prinz (C)

EURO 2009 - UPDATE

SEMI-FINALS



We are now down to the last four in the Uefa Women's Euro 2009.
England, Germany, Netherlands and Norway.

England will play the Netherlands on Sunday 5pm BST.
They booked their place in the semi's with a gritty performance against the hosts Finland. Winning 3-2. England had more of the ball and the better of the play but the Finn's were always dangerous with long balls and set pieces. Saint Louis Athletica's Eniola Aluko scored 2 goals to to take England through taking her tally for the championships to 3 goals and earning her the player of the match. Midfielder Fara Williams scored her 2nd goal of the tournament. Captain Faye White is out of the tournament with a broken cheek bone.



Germany overcame an up for it Italy to go thorough to the semi's 2-1. 2 goals from forward Inka Grings who overcame a knee injury sealed it. Both goals coming at the start of each half.
Grings is now the leading scorer for the tournament on 4 goals.
Germany will play Norway on Monday 7th September.


Netherlands booked their Semi-Final day with England with a win over rivals France by a penalty shoot-out which they won 5-4. The game was all France but the Dutch bunkered in and got stuck into the French team to stop them playing. It was not pretty but it was effective.
With several players from both teams missing their penalties to take their team through young dutch midfielder and postergirl Anouk Hoogendijk stepped up to put her team through.




Norway the last team to make it through with maybe the surprise result of the tournament with a 3-1 win over their rivals Sweden. With luck on their side with the first goal Norway rattled Sweden out of their stride to book a date with Germany. In the end they were composed, compact and played well on the counter attack. One which accounted for their 3rd goal by 2nd half substitute forward Cecile Pedersen, who stroked the ball passed the goalkeeper with the outside of her right foot after out running the last defender. Brilliant goal which brought delight to her teamates and coach.

Semi-finals - Match kick-offs are listed in CET

06/09	England	18:00	Netherlands
07/09	Germany	18:00	Norway

EURO 2009 - UPDATE

The UEFA Women's Euro 2009 quarter-final lineup has been confirmed with England and Norway coming through ahead of Denmark as the two best third-placed teams.

The last games were played today where Sweden and England drew 1-1. Sweden taking the top spot in group C and England qualifying in 3rd as a one of the two best 3rd place teams.
Italy beat Russia 2-0 to take 2nd.

Quarter-Finals

England will now play the hosts Finland on Thursday. France will then take on the Netherlands later on in the evening.
On Friday Germany will play Italy and then to round out the day Sweden will be up against Norway.

UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2009™ knockout schedule Kick-off times local, CET is one hour behind
Date	Group/Stage	Match	Venue	Kick-off
Thu 3 Sep	Quarter-final 1	FIN v ENG	Turku Stadium	16.00
Thu 3 Sep	Quarter-final 4	NED v FRA	Tampere Stadium	20.00
Fri 4 Sep	Quarter-final 2	GER v ITA	Lahti Stadium	16.00
Fri 4 Sep	Quarter-final 3	SWE v NOR	Helsinki Football Stadium	20.00
Sun 6 Sep	Semi-final 1	QF1 v QF4	Tampere Stadium	19.00
Mon 7 Sep	Semi-final 2	QF2 v QF3	Helsinki Football Stadium	19.00
Thu 10 Sep	Final	SF1 v SF2	Olympic Stadium, Helsinki	19.00

EURO 2009 - THE STORY SO FAR

The Story so far…we have now seen all the teams play twice..some teams have won both games , some have lost both games and others have a win and a lost.Surprisingly no draws but in all the matches played the players are the stars.
The ones we have shown a spotlight on have burned brightly and there have been others that have are making a their mark.
As the teams go into the last group of matches to decide the quarter-finals we take a look at the story so far.

The hosts Finland with two wins are straight through to the quarterfinals. With the crowd behind them they shocked Denmark with a 1-0 win in the 1st game and followed that up with a 2-1 win versus the Netherlands.Laura Österberg Kalmari (below)
And Anna Westerlund have justified their status and played fantastic in both games. Kalmari is the top scorer with 2 goals. The finish press have dubbed her “queen of Finland”.

Young dutch player Karin Stevens got a goal against Ukraine, star Manon Melis has played well and showed form but as yet hasn’t managed to score but a player that is emerging for the Netherlands is 24 year old Kirsten Van De Ven.(Above). The midfielder has scored 2 goals from midfield and has impressed with her one v one ball skills and pace. Former Quinnipiac University and Florida State alum.

The holders Germany top the group and have been very impressive. They are physically so strong and they look up for retaining their title once again.Fatmire Bajramaj came on as a 2nd half substitute against Norway to score 2 goals.Inka Grings
Got her goal against France. Linda Bresonik(right) scores two penalties but it is her all round display in midfield that has got plaudits singing her praise.Youngster Kim Kulig has so far been outstanding in midfield with Bresonik.


Louisa Necib of France has shown her technical ability in both matches, particularly against Iceland. Scoring a goal to cement France’s 3-1 win against Iceland.
Camille Abily(Above) has shown just how much LA Sol missed her in the midfield as she has shown flashes of skill and partnership with Necib.

Sweden top their group so far with 2 dominating displays. Lotta Schelin and Kosovare Asllani(Above) both have been impressive and both scored against Italy.


Italy have exceeded expectations by beating England. Veteran captain Patrizia Panico
Scoring her 1st goal of the championships.
Fara Williams and Karen Carney have both


scored their 1st goals of the championships as England have battled in their first two games. Carney putting in her best display for a while in an England shirt as she rallied England against Russia from 2-0 down.Boston breakers Kelly Smith(Above) and Alex Scott played well against Russia with Smith scoring a brilliant goal to keep England in the hunt.


Still a long way to go.Many matches still to play, twists and turns still to be played out.. but one thing is for certain Euro 2009 is a go!

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Euro 2009 Championships have begun.Some of the biggest names in women’s football are taking part. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the course of the Championships.I hope you are all getting a chance to catch some of the matches and talent on show.

Finally - The Hosts

Finland


Finland came on to the international stage with bang. Their semi-finals run in Euro 2005 in England was seen as great achievement. They were beaten in that match by the eventual winners Germany.
Steadily they have been rising up the rankings in world football. They currently sit 11th in Europe , 18th in the world.
Several players playing in the Swedish Damallsvenskan league has also helped them progress.
Coach Michael Käld became coach in 2001 and quickly got his squad together playing an aggressive , high tempo style of play with the emphasis on getting the ball quickly and high to the tall forwards.The midfield is packed with very strong, physical players.
With Euro 2009 played on home soil the finns are looking to get of to a good start to get the crowds behind them cheering them all the way to maybe the final this time around.



Laura Österberg Kalmari (Key Player)



Kamari is Finland’s all-time leading scorer. She has over 100 caps with 30 goals scored.
She was shortlisted for FIFA Women's World Player of the Year in 2005 and 2006.
Helped Finland to the Semi-Finals at Euro 2005 in England. Their best performance in a tournament.
Retired from international play in 2006 but returned in February to help Finland in Euro 2009 on home soil.
Has won three Finnish titles (HJK Helsinki), the 2002 W-League crown (Boston Renegades) and 2002/03 and 2003/04 UEFA Women's Cups (Umeå IK).
Currently plays for AIK in the Swedish Damallsvenskan league.



Anna Westerlund (Fresh Face)

Is a 20 year old midfield dynamo. Now with a starting position in midfield, she plays in tandem with experienced players like Anne Mäkinen.
Part of the Finland squad at the 2006 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Russia.
With 17 senior caps Westerlund’s attributes are tough tackling and quick distribution to the forwards. Also very good on dead ball situations.
She has won the Finnish championship three times in 06,07 & 08 with club FC Honka.
Touted as a future captain.

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Euro 2009 Championships have begun.Some of the biggest names in women’s football are taking part. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the course of the Championships.I hope you are all getting a chance to catch some of the matches and talent on show.


Iceland




UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2009 will be the first senior final tournament for either men or women to feature a team from Iceland, with the islanders due to compete alongside many of their fellow northern European nations.

They came within an ace of the 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup, pipped by Russia in their group and England in the first round of the play-offs, and in 2005 they moved to within a two-legged tie of the continental finals. Eventual runners-up Norway proved too tough, however. Their 2007 World Cup bid fell short but, with Siggy Eyjólfsson appointed as coach, Iceland hit top form in UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2009™ qualifying, running France close in their pool and defeating the Republic of Ireland in the play-offs, prevailing in every home game without conceding. Coming hot on the heels of a home win over France, their 5-0 success against Serbia in June 2007 even attracted a team record 5,976 spectators to Reykjavik's national stadium, and their games have proved a TV ratings hit.
The Icelandic team are big and strong and have a never say die attitude which is sparked by their coach who coaches from a psychological side.
The team are currently in the top 20 of teams in the world. 12th In Europe.



Margrét Lára Vidarsdóttir (Key Player)


Is currently Icelands top goal scorer. With over 54 caps and 48 goals for her country Vidarsdottir is Icelands most prolific striker.
She finished the top scorer in qualifying with 12 goals in 10 matches, including the winner at home to France.
In 2007 she beat Eidur Gudjohnsen to Iceland's sportsperson of the year award, after hitting a record 38 goals in 16 top-flight appearances for Valur, for whom she was the league's leading markswoman in each season from 2004 until 2008.
Her 14 goals for ex-club Valur Reykjavík in the 2008/09 UEFA Women's Cup constituted a record and her third time in four years atop the competition's scoring chart.
Currently plays for Linkopings FC in the Swedish Damallsvenskan.


Sara Björk Gunnarsdóttir (Fresh Player)


Is an 18 year old attacking midfielder who came through the youth ranks.
Played in all three games of the hosts' 2007 UEFA European Women's Under-19 Championship finals campaign.
She already has 19 caps and 5 goals for her country.
Scored 2 goals in the qualifying campaign in 7 matches.
Gunnarsdottir made her mark in this years Algarve Cup where she scored twice in Icelands 3-1 win against Norway.
Currently plays for Icelandic club Breiðablik UBK.

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Euro 2009 Championships have begun.Some of the biggest names in women’s football are taking part. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the course of the Championships.I hope you are all getting a chance to catch some of the matches and talent on show.


Netherlands





The Netherlands were among the stronger nations in the early days of European competitions for women and, after recovering from a period of struggle, they have reached the final tournament for the first time.
10TH in Europe , 17th in the World.The Dutch made it through their qualifying group.

With the domestic game improved by the formation of a women's Eredivisie backed by clubs including AZ Alkmaar, the Netherlands finished second in their group behind Switzerland before collecting a pair of 2-0 play-off wins against Spain, a team they had never previously beaten.
Before the two games against Spain, the Netherlands were outsiders to qualify, especially with star striker Manon Melis injured. But in Madrid they withstood a first-half barrage before getting the goals to get through.
Coach Vera Pauw has long been a ground-breaker in Dutch female football and has now become the first coach to lead the Netherlands to a senior women's finals.She is highly regarded internationally as a coach, and in May 2005 she was the first woman to complete the KNVB's CBV coaching diploma, earning her the UEFA Pro Licence. She has worked as a technical observer at major events including UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2005™ and is a member of the UEFA Women's Football Committee.
She was previously coach and Technical director of the Scotland Women’s national team.
The Dutch play the way their men's team play as in “Total Football”.

Manon Melis (Key Player)



Melis is the Netherlands top goalscorer. She is a true striker. Has a nose for goal.
At just only 23 years old she has 56 caps and 20 goals for her country.
In the eight qualifying matches Melis scored 7 goals.
She is fast closing in on Marjoke de Bakker's all-time record of 28 Netherlands goals.
Struck twice on her 50th Netherlands appearance in the 5-0 win over South Africa at the Cyprus Women's Cup in March, finishing atop the tournament's scoring chart alongside Canada's Christine Sinclair.
Currently plays for Swedish club Malmo FF in the Damallsvenskan.
Was joint top scorer in the league with 23 goals with Brazilian international Marta.
Was the clubs player of the year.


Karin Stevens (Fresh Face)


20 year old Stevens was the hero of the play-off win against Spain – scoring three of her team's goals in the 4-0 aggregate success.
She played in all of the qualifying matches scoring 4 goals.
Stevens is an attacking midfielder who can also play upfront. Her best assets are her ball skills and her ability to take players on. At her best when running towards goal.
Stevens has 31 caps and 16 goals for her country.
She made her debut for the national team in 2006 while still playing for a boys team.
In 2007 she joined William II in the new women’s Premier league.The Eredivisie.
That season she was the leagues top scorer with 20 goals and was voted 3rd in the Best Player of the year.
Many clubs across Europe have expressed an interest in Stevens and are watching her in the Euro’s very closely. The big stage is there for the taking.

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Euro 2009 Championships have begun.Some of the biggest names in women’s football are taking part. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the course of the Championships.I hope you are all getting a chance to catch some of the matches and talent on show.


Ukraine




Ukraine - 9th in Europe & 16th in the world have qualified for the finals of a major tournament for the first time since being founded in 1993.
They have come close but always seemed to miss out. But since this years championship was expanded to 12 teams Ukraine took their opportunity.
In qualifying they made a great start with six straight wins, including a victory against Denmark. Denmark however piped them to top the group and Ukraine had to beat Slovenia in the playoffs to compete in the Championships.
Coach Anatoliy Kutsev is a former footballer who took over in January 2007 just in time for qualifying.They conceded just 3 goals in 10 qualifying matches.
Kutsev brings a great work ethic to his team and he expects the same from them.
Many of the players in the squad are from teams playing in the Russian Women’s League Zvezda-2005 Perm and WFC Rossiyanka as well as the Ukranian club champions Legenda Chernigiv.
The only problem with Ukraine is how fit and ready they are. Due to many reasons they have not played an international match in 2009.


Daryna Apanaschenko (Key Player)


Star striker is without a doubt Apanaschenko.Ukraine's main goal threat, her strikes in qualifying included the winners at home to Denmark and in Scotland, plus three in the play-off victory over Slovenia. In the 10 qualifying games she scored 6 goals.
Won the 2001 and 2002 Ukrainian titles with Legend Chernigov.
Joined Zvezda-2005 of Russia in the winter break and made an instant impact in their UEFA Women's Cup campaign, scoring twice in the semi-final second leg and their only goal of the final defeat by FCR 2001 Duisburg.
Good with the ball at her feet, if given space to turn Apanaschenko can be Ukraine’s best weapon.





Olha Boychenko (Fresh Face)



20 year old Boychenko broke into the squad late in qualifying, coming off the bench three times.She now has a starting spot in the first XI.
Debut was against Scotland.
Blessed with pace, she can operate on either flank or as a centre-forward.
Current club is FC Legend Chernigov - Ukranian champions.

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Euro 2009 Championships have begun.Some of the biggest names in women’s football are taking part. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the course of the Championships.I hope you are all getting a chance to catch some of the matches and talent on show.

A new emerging team playing today is Russia. See how they come up against the power that is Sweden. Check out Sweden's profile HERE again.


Russia




Russia are an emerging international team. They are ranked 8th in Europe, 15th in the world.
Their recent success has come from a clutch of players from the Under 19’s 2005 European Championship squad who have all come through into the senior squad together. The Russians won the championship with flair, technique and application.
Former footballer Igor Shalimov was appointed the Russian coach on 20 May 2008 and within six months had led his team to the Euro 2009 Championships.
The majority of his squad is made up of players from the club side WFC Rossiyanka, with a few from the women’s Uefa Cup finalist Zvezda 2005 Prem.
Russia came second in their qualifying group losing only to Norway. They beat Scotland in the playoffs to get through.
With the squad having a club mentality and players familiar with each others game Shalimov is hoping that this will give Russia the edge over some of the other teams.
Men’s national team coach and former Chelsea FC coach Gus Hiddink has took several of the women’s training sessions in preparation for the championships.


Tatiana Skotnikova (Key Player)

Skotnikova is the captain and is an automatic choice in midfield for Russia.
Has been part of the team for over a decade, playing in the 2001 Euros and 1999 and 2003 FIFA Women's World Cups.
Stotnikova a tough tackling midfielder plays as a holding midfielder but can be deployed as an attacking midfielder if needed.
Played in all the qualifying games for Russia.
Won the league five years running with Lada Togliatti (2002 and 2003), FC Energia Voronezh (2004) and WFC Rossiyanka (2005 and 2006).
Currently playes for WFC Rossiyanka in the Women’s Premier League in Russia.





Elena Morozova (Fresh Face)


Morozova at 22 years old is just one of the young players from that winning Under 19’s European team that has cemented an automatic starting position for Russia.
Starting in 9 of the qualifying matches the midfielder pulled the strings in midfield liking up well with the forwards and assisting in many of their goals.
Scored her only goal in a 3-1 victory against Poland.
Created a partnership in the middle of the field with Captain Tatiana Skotnikova which is due in part to them playing for the same club side.
Currently plays for WFC Rossiyanka in the Russian Women’s premier league.

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Euro 2009 Championships have begun.Some of the biggest names in women’s football are taking part. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the course of the Championships.I hope you are all getting a chance to catch some of the matches and talent on show.


Italy





Italy have been runners-up in the European Championships in 1993 and 1997, but since then they have suffered a dip in fortunes in recent years but they remain regular qualifiers and there are signs of improvement.
Currently they are ranked 7th in Europe and 13th in the world. They gave Sweden a run for their money in 2009 qualifying finishing 2nd in the group and comfortably defeated the Czech Republic in the play-off to reach the finals.
Coached by Pietro Ghedin since 2005. Ghedin was previously an assistant coach to the Italian men’s team during World Cup 98 & 2002 and Euro 2000.
He has put together a team packed with experience that could cause some damage in the Championships.



Patrizia Panico (Key Player)

Panico is one of the most experienced players in the Italian squad.
The striker has become the face of women’s football in Italy.
With over a hundred caps and 70 goals Panico is Italy’s most potent weapon.
Equiped with pace, skill and a great football mind Panico will need to be watched at all times during a game. She can score any type of goals from the spectacular to the6 yard tap ins.
During qualifying Panico scored 7 goals in 10 matches.
Scored a hatrick against Australia in Italy’s 5-1 win in February this year.
Currently signed for Sasarri Torres in Italian women’s Serie A league.
2008/09 season was playing with Bardolino where she won the championship for the 3rd time in a row.
Top scorer in Serie A for the past 5 seasons.



Sara Gama (Fresh Face)

Sara Gama is a 20 year old full-back that despite her young age has forced her way into a starting position and kept it. Played in all but 1 qualifying match.
She has good pace and a hard tackle but she is known for her leadership and calmness in the back line.
Captained Italy to success at the 2008 UEFA European Women's Under-19 Championship in France. Where she earned praise from those that saw a mature and assured performance. Was voted into the team of the championships.
Currently plays for Tavagnacco in Serie A.

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Euro 2009 Championships have begun.Some of the biggest names in women’s football are taking part. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the course of the Championships.I hope you are all getting a chance to catch some of the matches and talent on show.



Norway



Norway are one of the most successful women’s national football teams in the world.
They have won a World Cup in 95, an Olympic Gold medal in 2000 and the European Championship twice in 87 & 93.They were runners-up in England in 2005.
They have been as high as number 3 in the world rankings but they currently sit in 10th, their lowest to date. 6th in the European rankings.
This is due in part to other teams improving while Norway have been in a bit of a slump this year.
They qualified well for Euro 2009 with 6 wins and a draw out of 7 matches. Scoring 26 goals for and conceding none.
However at the end of the qualifying a number of players quit due to issues with the management. Some retired and some are injured. Head coach Bjarne Berntsen lost as many as eight players to his squad.
Norway are in transition. Bernsten has had to call a clutch of new players with limited international experience and some fresh faces into the squad for Euro 2009.He has adapted Norway’s formation and style of play.
Will it all come together just in time? One things for sure, Norway will be there or there abouts in the tournament. Form is temporary, but class is permanent.


Ingvild Stensland (Key Player)


With many of Norway’s experienced players no longer in the squad. Ingvild Stensland has become their most important player. She is the Captain, the veteran that the young players will look up to.
Stensland is a combative midfielder that will fight for every ball in the centre of midfield. She is known for her tough tackling and work ethic.
With a strong shot she has scored some spectacular goals. And is always dangerous with free-kicks.
For the past 4 years Stensland has been nominated for FIFA Woman’s Player of the Year.
Currently plays for Olympique Lyonnais. Joined in January 2009.Picking up the Division 1 championship.
With 80 caps to her name. Stensland remains unchanged in a much changed Norway.


Elise Thorsnes (Fresh Face)

21 year old Thorsnes has come back into form after starting her career with a bang in the Norwegian women’s league the Toppserien with Arna-Bjørnar.
There she was regularly at the top of the scoring charts, was voted Young Player of the Year and pushed her way into the 2008 Beijing Olympic national team.
With skill and pace Thorsnes main attributes are taking on defenders one v one or playing of the shoulder of the last defender where she can use her pace to get behind the defence.
In Norway’s new formation and style of play Thorsnes is expected to start in the starting XI.
With 23 caps already with only one goal, Euro 2009 is the time for her to take her club form to the International stage and help get Norway back to the power they once were.

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

The countdown has begun to the 2009 Women's European championships in Finland. Some of the biggest names in women’s football are taking part. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the next few days leading up to the start of the Championships.

So far we have taken a look at Germany, Sweden, Denmark and France.
Now it's England's turn.



England




England are a team on the rise. They have steadily risen up the rankings in women’s football in the last couple of years under the leadership of their coach Hope Powell. Powell took charge at England HQ in 1998 overseeing all age groups from Under 15’s to Under 21’s. Implementing a system that has produced a talented young squad.
Today England sit 5th in the European rankings and 9th in the world.
After a disappointing Euro 2005 on their home turf , the 2007 World Cup was a turnaround. Reaching the Quarter-Finals with good play, this was an indication of how far they had come and how far they could go.
Qualifying for this years European Championships was relatively straight forward with wins until the very last game against Spain. Having been 2-0 down at half-time. England fought back to 2-2 to get the point they needed to qualify.
This year in preparation for the European Championships they won their first tournament the Cyprus Cup with a win over Canada. Drawing with France on the way. The tournament win proved to the players and the rest of Europe that they can have an impact in the Championships and women’s football. Confidence is the key.




Fara Williams (Key Player)

There are quite a few key players for England but in our opinion Fara Williams is it.
Williams is England’s goal scoring midfielder.A competitive midfielder with an explosive shot. She is England’s engine room , their playmaker, their everything. It has been said by many if Williams plays well England play well. And for the past couple of years that is exactly what has been happening. She sets the tempo to how they play, screens her back four but is lethal in attack as well. Combining well with England’s forwards.
Blessed with a thunderous and accurate shot Williams has scored 25 goals from 70 appearances for England.
She has played and scored goals in both the 2005 European Championships and the 2007 World Cup.
Captained England to their first ever tournament win in the Cyprus Cup in March 2009 where they beat Canada to lift the cup.
William’s is England’s Vice-Captain to Faye White but with recent injuries to White Williams has taken on a more leadership role in the team. The team plays in the style she plays.
Voted England’s International Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year in the league for 2009.
Currently captains Everton Ladies. Taking them to a league cup win in 2008 and runner-up in the Women's premier league for the 2008/09 season.
There is more to come from Williams. Still only 25 years old, Euro 2009 could see her become one of the world’s best midfielders, if she isn’t already. And then who knows, WPS?
Teams there are crying out for midfielders like her.





Karen Carney (Fresh Face)

At just 22 years old with 48 caps you would be thinking that Carney has been around for a long time. Well she has, but we still see her as a fresh face.
She became the youngest player to be called to the senior England side at 17.
On the pitch, Carney delivers pace and incision, whether playing up front or more often on the wing. Has scored 7 times for England and has matured in each tournament and is still improving.
With accuracy from both feet Carney is the provider to the forwards. No matter what wing she is on she will take on defenders, drive into the box for a shot on goal or create a chance for her teamates.
Was instrumental in Arsenal Ladies quadruple season.
Was twice voted the FA’s Young Player of the Year.
March 2009 moved to WPS team Chicago Red Stars in USA where she proved a big hit with the Chicago fans and the soccer pundits. Adapting to a new style of play and scoring 2 goals.
Has improved her game now she is a professional player and the sky is the limit as to how far she goes.
It also doesn’t hurt when your teamate is the Brazilian international Cristiane.

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

In just four days time some of the top countries in women’s football will be competing for the right to be called European champions. The championships in Finland will play host to some of the biggest names in women’s football. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the next few days leading up to the start of the Championships.

So far we have taken a look at Germany, Sweden and Denmark.
Next up.....



France



Ranked 4th in Europe and 8th in the world, France are the team that everyone is waiting to explode on to the international stage as a dominant women’s football team, Just like the men’s team did in France 98.The squad is Filled with talented players coached from a young age at the prestigious Clairefontaine(French Football Academy). Clairefontaine is recognised as one of the finest football academy’s in the world. It has a high reputation of producing some of the most gifted French football players including Thierry Henry.
The squad that coach Bruno Bini has picked is packed with experience, technical ability and raw talent.
In the last few European Championships France have failed to get out of the group stages but optimism is high this time. With a bunch of players that have come through the ranks with each other now having matured and the squad filled with many players from arguably one of the best club sides in Europe and in France, Olympique Lyonnais, the squad have been playing attractive, technically skilled football, attracting attention from the media and the fans.
France put in a pretty convincing qualifying campaign winning 7 out of 8 matches conceding only 2 goals.
Our dark horse team. Come on Les Blues.



Sonia Bompastor (Key Player)

Is one of the best players to come out of France since Marinette Pichon.
A veteran of the national team with 105 caps. She has scored 11 goals and played in the 2003 World Cup and 2005 European championships.
Bompastor can play anywhere on the field, defence , midfield and even up front and has a lethal left foot with which she uses to strike at goal or provide accurate balls for her teamates to get on the end of. Normally deployed in the left of midfield or left of the defence.
She is also Known for her tenacity, never say die attitude and leadership skills which has seen her Captain the national squad and the club side Olympique Lyonnais. The latter to two French championships and a French cup. Was Voted France’s player of the year in 2004 & 2008.
Bompastor was one of the few Europeans to cross the Atlantic to the new Women’s Professional Soccer league in America playing for the Washington Freedom.
In the WPS Bompastor impressed everyone with her game and professionalism. She has received Player of the Week and Player of the Month accolades and was also chosen for the WPS All-Star team.



Louisa Necib (Fresh Face)

22 year old Necib is the rising star of French women’s football. The attacking midfielder is a product of Clairefontaine and has been likened to the French player Zinedine Zidane, due in part to her Algerian roots but also to her skill in midfield.
Necib is a playmaker with good technical ability and passing skills. She is a dead ball specialist and her accurate service to team-mates has put her on the map as one of the best midfielders in women’s football.
Necib played in the 2005 European Championships in England. She has 33 appearances and scored 4 goals for France.
Joined Olympique Lyonnais from Montpelier in 2007 and made an immediate impact. Scoring 17 goals in the season helping Olympique Lyonnais to the French Championship, the French Cup and to the Semi-Finals of the Women’s Uefa Cup.
Voted France’s Player of The Year for 2009.
Was drafted by WPS team Washington Freedom but decided to stay with Olympique Lyonnais. It's only a matter of time.

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

In less than 30 days some of the top countries in women’s football will be competing for the right to be called European champions. The championships in Finland will play host to some of the biggest names in women’s football. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the next few weeks leading up to the start of the Championships.

So we have taken a look at Germany and Sweden. Next up is Denmark and France.


Denmark




The Danish are ranked no3 in Europe and no6 in the world. They have risin steadily up the rankings with a string of good results over the past 2 years.
Denmark have regularly qualified for the European Championships and have managed to get to the quarter-finals on a couple of occasions. They still could do better in tournament play however. This could be their year.
In qualifying for the Championships they had won all but one of their eight qualifying matches.
This year has been a good year on the international stage. They have introduced a batch of young players and lost only 2 games. One in the Algarve Cup to the no1 team in the world the USA and the other, their recent game to England.
Head Coach Kenneth Heiner-Møller has introduced young players to his squad as some of the more experienced players have retired like star player and scorer Merete Pedersen who retired in May of this year and some will not be available due to long-term injury.


Catherine Paaske Sørensen (Key Player)




The midfield maestro Sørensen has become a key player for Denmark as she is now the top scorer after Pedersen retired.Blessed with pace and vision Sørensen has scored 26 goals in 99 appearances in a Danish shirt.
She is known for her close control of the ball, alluding defenders and getting into the box undetected to score vital goals that can turn a match in favour of Denmark.
3 times Danish Player Of The Year she was nominated for FIFA World Player of the Year for 2006.
This year she is currently returning from injury but she is one to watch not only by fans but by the opposition.
Currently playes for Linköpings FC in the Swedish Women's Premier Division the Damallsvenskan.






Nadia Nadim (Fresh Face)


21 year old Afghanistan born Nadim made her international debut this past March against the USA in the Algarve Cup. Denmark lost but Nadim had made an impression which has seen her start all Denmark's games since.
Born in Afgahnistan and settled in Denmark in 2000 Nadim was only cleared by FIFA to play for Denmark in January 2009.
Playing as an attacking midfielder she has pace and the skill to take on defenders coming from wide.
Current club is Skovbakken IK in the Women's Danish league where she plays as a forward and is currently their top scorer.
Nadim will undoubtedly be a face to watch over the 2 weeks.

HOPE POWELL NAMES EURO 2009 SQUAD

England women's football coach Hope Powell has named her squad of 22 for the UEFA Women's Euro 2009 Championship in Finland.

Powell said this afternoon that she has named a squad that is versatile and experienced with some exciting young players.

A surprise inclusion in the sqaud is of goalkeeper Karen Bardsley from the WPS team Sky Blue FC. Bardsley was called up to the squad for the first time last month and got her 1st cap against Denmark.

Powell said that Bardsley has that experience and physical presence due to her being a full-time professional player and she has had her eye on her for a long time now.

The other big story is off the axe for England's most cap player Arsenal star Rachel Yankey.
Powell hinted that she isn't in the squad due to her attitude and that other players have performed better.

Everton players make up the bulk of the squad with 7 players, Chelsea are next with 4 and Arsenal with 3.

Karen Bardsley, Alex Scott, Anita Asante, Karen Carney, Kelly Smith and Eniola Aluko play their football in the USA in the new Women's Professional Soccer league (WPS).



SQUAD

Goalkeepers

1. Rachel Brown (Everton)
13.Siobhan Chamberlain (Chelsea)
22. Karen Bardsley (Sky Blue FC)


Defenders

2. Alex Scott (Boston Breakers)
3. Casey Stoney (Chelsea)
5. Lindsey Johnson (Everton)
6. Anita Asante (Sky Blue FC)
14. Faye White (Arsenal)
15. Rachel Unitt (Everton)
19. Laura Bassett (Arsenal)


Midfielders

4. Fara Williams (Everton)
7. Karen Carney (Chicago Red Stars)
8. Katie Chapman ( Arsenal)
10. Kelly Smith (Boston Breakers)
11. Sue Smith (Leeds Carnegie)
12. Jill Scott (Everton)
18. Emily Westwood(Everton)
20. Danielle Buet (Chelsea)


Forwards

9. Eniola Aluko (Saint Louis Athletica)
16. Jody Handley (Everton)
17. Lianne Sanderson ( Chelsea)
21. Jessica Clarke ( Leeds Carnegie)

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

In less than 30 days some of the top countries in women’s football will be competing for the right to be called European champions. The championships in Finland will play host to some of the biggest names in women’s football. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the next few weeks leading up to the start of the Championships.

SWEDEN




Ranked no2 in Europe and no4 in the world. Sweden have graced the top of women’s soccer from the very beginning. Known for their physical play they regularly finished at the top end of tournaments.
Sweden were the first team to win the European Championships back in 1984. Runners-up three times.
This year coach Thomas Dennerby has had to reshuffle his side as many players had retired. Top striker Hanna Ljunberg, midfielder Frida Ostberg and GK Caroline Jonsson are all gone.
Captain Victoria Svensson is still going strong and other players have filled the void.
In qualifying for the championships Sweden won all 8 matches without conceding a goal.
This year in preparation for the championships they have won all their games played. They have beaten Brazil, Germany and the USA amongst others. The latter in the Algarve Cup to win the tournament.
With a strong domestic league in the Damallsvenskan, the future is bright for Sweden and they will be trying their hardest to take on the Germans.



Lotta Schelin (Key Player)

Schelin has become Sweden’s go to player. Tall , strong and technically gifted Schelin has become one of Europe's best strikers. A knack for putting the ball in the back of the net with both feet and by her head, Schelin has scored 30 goals in 64 caps for Sweden.
Played in the Damallsvenskan league with Gothenborg FC scoring 116 goals from 154 games.
Moved to French club Olympique Lyon in August 2008 where she won the French league title and the league cup. 24 goals in 22 appearances .It’s not hard to see why the WPS came calling for her.
Schelin has expressed an interest in playing in the WPS at some point, but first things first. If she turns it on in the Euro’s there will be more clubs clamouring for her signature.




Kosovare Asllani (Fresh Face)

20 year old attacker Asllani has played in all of Sweden’s 8 matches in 2009. Not looking out of place against Brazil, Germany and USA she has cemented a starting position for Sweden in midfield even though she is a forward player for club side Linköpings FC. Coach Thomas Dennerby has been impressed with the calm play Asllani brings to his team.
With pace and controlled technique Asllani has proven a good support player to Lotta Schelin and Victoria Svensson. With 10 caps in the bag Asllani is looking to get a goal in her first big tournament.

PREVIEW 2009 UEFA WOMEN’S EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS

In less than 30 days some of the top countries in women’s football will be competing for the right to be called European champions. The championships in Finland will play host to some of the biggest names in women’s football. Here at Womans Soccer Insider we take a look at the nations , their star /key players and brightest new talent. Who will end up in WPS. Can anyone stop the Germans? We will give you our thoughts and more over the next few weeks leading up to the start of the Championships. First up - Germany.



Germany are the no1 ranked team in Europe and they are no3 in the world only behind USA and Brazil. They have won the European Championships a total of 6 times and they have won the last 4 in a row.Oh…. they are also the reigning World Cup winners, winning in 2003 and 2007. So , yes they are very good and the favourites to win. They know how to play tournament football. However they are on somewhat of a rebuilding stage. After finishing 3rd at the Beijing Olympics last year some of their influential players have retired and some are coming back from injury. Head coach Silvia Neid has introduced new faces and brought back some old faces to get the German machine going once again. Who can stop them indeed.

During qualifying for this years championships the Germans won all 8 matches scoring 34 goals and conceding just 1.



Inka Grings (Key Player).

Germany have some of the best players in the world in their position - Striker Brigit Prinz, GK Nadine Angerer, RB Kerstin Stegemann come immediately to mind, but we have identified Inka Grings as their key player for the Euro 2009.

Inka is the top scorer in the women’s Bundesliga in Germany for the past two seasons. Scoring 29 goals in the league this season. She is the Bundesliga’s most prolific scorer ever. Captained FCR 2001 Duisburg this year to 3rd place in the Bundesliga, German cup winners and UEFA European cup winners.
Scored a goal in her comeback game against China this year after been recalled back to national team duty by Silvia Neid. Grings had not played for Germany for nearly 4 years for various reasons.
Grings has added a predatory goal attack to the already professional German machine.



Fatmire Bajramaj (Fresh face)


At 21 years of age Bajramaj has forced her way into the national team.
Playing mainly from midfield Bajramaj adds spark whenever she comes onto the field. She has pace and skill to take defenders on and create chances for her teamates.
29 caps 3 goals for Germany, Fatmire has been used mainly as a substitute. This year she has played her way into the starting 11.
2008/2009 season finished on a high for Fatmire. Played for FCR 2001 Duisburg she was a German Cup winner and a European Championship winner. Scoring 4 goals.

Now hoping to make her mark at a major tournament for Germany.

Euro joy for England's Women's U19s

England Women’s U19s are celebrating tonight after lifting the UEFA European Championship in Belarus.

A goal apiece for Toni Duggan and Jordan Nobbs secured a 2-0 victory over Sweden in the Final and Rebecca Spencer’s clean sheet means The Three Lions triumphed in the competition without conceding a single goal.

Congratulations!! Euro 2009 next, please.

Read more on England's success HERE