England prepare for quarter-final against 'different' but familiar Sweden

Significance of Euro 2022 semi-final played down as holders prepare to face in-form Swedes and Stina Blackstenius

Sarina Wiegman and Lucy Bronze speak to media ahead of England’s quarter-final tie with Sweden. Credit: Uefa/Uefa via Getty Images

Tonight, England play in their sixth consecutive major-tournament quarter-final, a now familiar position for one of the best teams in Europe. However, in knockout football no two games are the same.

The Lionesses will face Sweden in the last eight of Euro 2025 in Zurich.

It’s been three years since they comprehensively dismissed Peter Gerhardsson’s side 4-0 in the semi-finals of Euro 2022.

That game, and that delirious night for England at Bramall Lane in Sheffield, has unsurprisingly been a topic of discussion throughout the buildup to this tie.

In the years since, England have faced Sweden in Euro 2025 qualifying, with two very tight games resulting in 1-1 and 0-0 draws.

Not only have both managers and several players been asked in press conferences to recall that night in 2022, but also to reflect on the familiarity of Sweden’s squad, many of whom currently play - or have previously played - their football in England.

“When you come up against a team, when you have a previous fixture like that, then you’re always probably going to remember it,” said England captain Leah Williamson on Tuesday. “But I think so much has happened since, and we alluded to it the other night, it’s different. Two very different teams now compared to that night.”