The Netherlands kick off their title defense with a draw against Sweden

Switzerland and Portugal do not pass the tie either (2-2)

Group C closes the first day with four teams with one point

BARCELONA, 9 Jul. (EUROPA PRESS) -

The Netherlands team began its defense of the title this Saturday with a long-suffering draw (1-1) against Sweden, Olympic runner-up in Tokyo, an equality that also ended up being triggered in the other group C match between Portugal and Switzerland (2- 2), leaving everything open for the second day of the group stage.

The defending champion made her European debut frustrated by injuries to goalkeeper Sari Van Veenendaal and center back Aniek Nouwen in the first half. In addition, Sweden, who won the inaugural edition of this tournament in 1984, took the lead to add to the rivals' bad dream in the 36th minute with a shot at Andersson's pleasure.

Sweden's momentary triumph left the Netherlands in serious doubt, trying to rediscover their game while their rivals exhibited their criteria in attack and their solvency in defense without giving the Dutch options.

After the break, Jill Roord came to the rescue of the Netherlands to put the tie (1-1) in the 52nd minute, taking advantage of a loose ball inside the area to finish off and leave behind the bad experience of the first half.

The goal did not affect Sweden, who enjoyed the best chances to take the lead, but the score did not change and both teams shared the points in a high-ranking match between continental champions.

In the other match of the day, Switzerland got off to a dream start with goals from Coumba Sow and Rahel Kiwic in the first five minutes. A start that allowed them to caress the three points, although Portugal, who disputes the continental competition due to the UEFA sanction against Russia, woke up to ruin the 'feast'.

Francisco Neto's team got their act together in the second half and charged forward to close the gap. Diana Gomes and Jessica Silva dampened Switzerland's explosive start and leveled the score in a crazy finish.

The frenetic pace took over the match in the last section and the succession of attacks were unleashed on both goals. But the post unhinged the Portuguese Encarnaçao and the Swiss Reuteler and the points were shared to leave the group even with everything to decide along with Sweden and the Netherlands.