On a chilly December evening in Helsinki, Olga Ahtinen and Eveliina Summanen, both midfielders for Tottenham Hotspur, played pivotal roles in securing Finland's spot at Euro 2025. Their 2-0 victory over Scotland in the playoff second leg was a testament to their skill and determination, despite the freezing temperatures and snowy conditions at the Bolt Arena.

The Finnish Connection at Tottenham

Summanen, 26, was the first to join Tottenham in 2022 from Swedish side Kristianstads, followed by Ahtinen, 27, who moved from Linköpings FC in 2023. Their shared history, having played together in youth national teams, has been a cornerstone of their success both at club and international levels.

Tottenham's Journey and Challenges

Despite a challenging season for Tottenham, finishing 10th in the Women's Super League (WSL), both players remain optimistic about the club's future. Under new manager Robert Vilahamn, Spurs made history by reaching their first-ever Women's FA Cup final last season, signaling a new era for the club.

Finland's Euro 2025 Ambitions

Finland, ranked 25th in the FIFA World Ranking, faces tough competition in their group against Norway, Iceland, and hosts Switzerland. However, with a squad boasting significant experience, including players with over 100 caps, Summanen is confident in their ability to compete.

A New Era for Finnish Football

Under the guidance of manager Marko Saloranta, who has been involved with the Finland women's setup since 2009, the team has adopted a more dynamic and attractive style of play. Ahtinen believes this summer's tournament is a golden opportunity to elevate Finnish football on the international stage.

Looking Ahead

As Finland prepares for Euro 2025, the focus is not just on competing but also on inspiring the next generation of Finnish footballers. With the support of their fans and the experience of their seasoned players, Ahtinen and Summanen are determined to make a lasting impact.

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