Alayah Pilgrim Seals Crucial Win for Switzerland with Late Goal Against Iceland

Pilgrim’s Moment of Magic

On a rain-soaked night in Sunday’s Women’s Euro clash, 22-year-old Alayah Pilgrim delivered a vital blow that kept Switzerland’s tournament dreams alive. Coming off the bench in the 78th minute, the young forward made her mark in dramatic fashion, scoring a deflected stoppage-time goal that secured a 2-0 win over Iceland.

It was a moment she had visualized before even stepping onto the pitch.

“Before I came in, I was manifesting a bit,” Pilgrim told Reuters after the game. “I wanted to score this goal really bad, and I wanted to be a game-changer. That was in my mind. So I just took the ball, went right, and shot.”

Her effort, which ricocheted off a defender and wrong-footed the Icelandic goalkeeper, sent the Swiss fans into celebration as their team earned a crucial three points.

Setting Up a Showdown with Finland

The win lifts Switzerland to second place in Group A, tied on points with Finland but ahead on goal difference. With Norway already through to the quarterfinals after topping the group with six points, the Swiss now need just a draw in their final group match against Finland to punch their ticket to the last eight.

Sunday’s performance against Iceland was a major confidence boost, and Pilgrim is ready to carry that energy into the decisive clash.

“Manifesting is a good thing,” she said with a smile. “We’re really looking forward to playing against Finland and getting another win.”

A Rising Star Steps Up

Pilgrim’s game-sealing goal may have been helped by a deflection, but her intent and energy were undeniable. It was a moment of belief, composure and clinical execution, qualities that are becoming trademarks of her game.

Her celebration reflected the emotion of the moment, arms raised, joy radiating from every step as the crowd roared in approval.

“I was in my moment,” Pilgrim said. “I don’t even know what I felt. So many things in my body, energy, emotions, the crowd. Of course, it was an amazing feeling.”

Eyes on the Knockouts

With their fate now in their own hands, Switzerland turns its attention to Thursday’s matchup against Finland. A place in the knockout stage is within reach, and the team knows the importance of finishing strong.

Coach Pia Sundhage’s decision to bring Pilgrim on proved decisive, and the confidence she has in her young attacker is clearly mutual.

As the Swiss squad regroups ahead of their final group game, the message is simple: stay focused, keep believing, and finish the job.

Key Takeaways

• Switzerland 2–0 Iceland: A vital win that keeps knockout hopes alive.

• Alayah Pilgrim’s late strike: Scored in stoppage time after coming on in the 78th minute.

• Group A standings: Norway leads with 6 points, Switzerland second with 3, ahead of Finland on goal difference.

• Next match: Switzerland faces Finland on Thursday. A draw will be enough to advance.

Switzerland’s road to the knockout rounds is far from over, but thanks to Alayah Pilgrim’s belief, and her boots, they’re one step closer to making it happen.