Overview
- Finland secured a 1-0 victory over Iceland in Thun to register the first win of the group stage.
- Hosts Switzerland faced Norway in the opening fixture at St. Jakob-Park in Basel on July 2.
- England defend their title against France on July 5 while Spain kick off against Portugal on July 3, setting up high-profile clashes early in the competition.
- Poland and Wales make their major-tournament debuts, joining 14 returning sides in the expanded 16-team format.
- UEFA has boosted the total prize fund to €41 million and eased stadium rules to allow half-liter water bottles in response to a heat wave, reflecting increased investment and fan comfort.