UEFA Women's Euro 2025: Norway's Ada Hegerberg feeling positive ahead of quarter-final vs Italy
There's been no stopping Ada Hegerberg since she began playing top-division football at the age of 15. And ahead of Norway's Euro quarterfinal against Italy on Wednesday, the captain, in a freewheeling chat with TOI, spoke about her dreams for a title with the national team and her continuous work for women's equality.
Excerpts:
A trophy with Norway has evaded you so far. Do you think the Euros can change that?
We reached the final in 2013. We are in a better position to do that now after winning three games. I feel very positive going into this quarterfinal.
What are going to be the challenges for your team against Italy in the quarters?
We respect Italy a lot. They've had good results coming into the Euro, so no game is going to be easy. But at the same time, we must go into the game believing in our abilities.
You have been a spokesperson for equal rights and pay for women's footballers. Do you think a lot has been achieved in that respect?
I would say that development has been incredible.
But it's always about making sure that we take the next step in the right direction.
What has been the most memorable moment in your decorated career?
I feel very lucky. It's hard to pick one. All those Champions League finals have been some of the best memories. Scoring a hat-trick in a Champions League final is unheard of. And, at the same time, representing Norway is a huge thing for me.
Being a top footballer who is also an activist for the women's game, do you believe activism and professional football go hand in hand?
I think I realised quite a long time ago that being a woman's footballer and not fighting for equality is impossible. I think it's a challenge because it brings a lot of responsibility. But it's totally worth it. I see the change and the impact we can have.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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