It was a week of thrilling victories and major developments in women’s football. Bermuda’s national team clinched the Island Games title for the second time in a row after a tense final that ended in a penalty shootout. Trailing with just minutes to go, they scored a dramatic 119th-minute penalty to keep their hopes alive before securing the win.
This week’s events highlight the growing passion and progress in women’s football worldwide. From the determination shown by smaller nations like Bermuda to the intense competition in the UEFA Women’s Champions League and groundbreaking initiatives from FIFA, the sport is reaching new heights and capturing the hearts of more fans every day.
🏆 Bermuda’s Dramatic Island Games Title Defence
Bermuda celebrated a hard-fought victory at the 2025 Island Games in Orkney. In a nail-biting final against the Isle of Man, the team went down a goal late in extra time. However, their fighting spirit shone through when they won a penalty in the 119th minute, which Khyla Brangman calmly converted to tie the game 1-1. Goalkeeper Zakhari Turner became the hero in the shootout, making a crucial save to help her team win 4-2 on penalties. The women’s success also inspired Bermuda’s men’s team, who went on to win their own final later that day.
⚽ Champions League Qualifiers Heat Up
The journey to the UEFA Women’s Champions League group stage saw plenty of action. Manchester United advanced comfortably, thanks to standout performances from Norwegian striker Elisabeth Terland, who scored four goals across two matches, including a hat-trick. Italian club Roma also showed their strength with a dominant 5-1 victory over Sparta Prague to secure their spot in the next round. One of the biggest surprises came from Norwegian side Brann, who defeated Italian giants Inter Milan in a hard-fought match to keep their European dreams alive.
🤝 FIFA Supports Global Growth and Inclusivity
FIFA has taken a significant step to support displaced female athletes by appointing former Scotland international Pauline Hamill as the head coach of the newly recognised Afghan women’s refugee team. This initiative provides a safe and supportive environment for players to continue their football careers on an international stage. On the financial front, FIFA announced an ambitious goal to generate $1 billion in revenue from future Women’s World Cups. This reflects the sport’s rapid growth and FIFA’s commitment to reinvesting in the women’s game to foster its development worldwide.
🇳🇱 Hera United Makes History in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, a new chapter for women’s club football has begun. Hera United has joined the top-tier Eredivisie Vrouwen as the league’s first-ever fully independent women’s team, meaning it is not affiliated with an existing men’s club. This groundbreaking move challenges traditional structures and paves the way for new models of professional women’s football. Hera United made a strong debut, earning a 2-2 draw against AZ Alkmaar in their opening match, proving they are ready to compete.
