For more than two weeks "La Nati", as the women's national team is affectionately known, captivated Switzerland with red-shirted fans thronging sold-out stadiums to see them qualify for the knockout stage of the Euros for the first time.

Spain's Esther Gonzalez celebrates after scoring her side's third goal past Italy goalkeeper Laura Giuliani during the Women's Euro 2025, group B, soccer match between Italy and Spain at Stadion Wankdorf in Bern, Switzerland, Friday, July 11, 2025. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner) AP

Switzerland coach Pia Sundhage is leaning into soccer history to prepare for one of the toughest games in her storied career Friday at the Women’s European Championship. Her fast-improving