Tribalism without toxicity - and other reasons why this Women's Euros is so appealing

When orange-clad Dutch fans marched to the Zurich stadium to play England this week, their rivals were encouraged to join the procession.

No need for segregated paths, nor heavy policing.

The Women's European Championship has a different feel from men's football tournaments.

Of course, there isn't a desire for games to be completely sedate or sanitised.

Wins are as fiercely fought over, but encouraging tribalism without toxicity is so much of the appeal.

"I would describe the male behaviour as aggressive or violent," fan Amy Cleall reflected on men's matches. "Whereas the women's experience, there's still that banter element, of home and away and competitiveness, but it's not scary or intimidating."

There is alcohol allowed in Swiss stadiums at Euro 2025, unlike at any professional games in England.

And the Football Association even staged a Lionesses fan event flowing with booze throughout Wednesday.

But there was no sense of anyone overdoing it as England beat the Netherlands 4-0 here on Wednesday night. No signs either of rowdiness as victorious fans mixed with their humbled rivals.

Female fans do feel safer at women's football. And this part of the sport can project an image of being more inclusive without fear of abuse.

A male Wales fan we encountered during a sightseeing spot at FIFA HQ in Zurich contrasted going to women's and men's football.

He said: "It's over-drinking, the use of substances which shouldn't be anywhere near a football ground and then it's hooliganism which you won't get at a women's game."

The England and Wales faithful were mixing in the fan zone in Zurich last night ahead of their group-stage showdown, an hour away in St Gallen on Sunday.

England fan Libby Bale said: "When you're at women's football you all come together."

Two male fans - both football coaches who often follow England men's matches abroad - found this Women's Euros experience refreshing.

"It feels more positive isn't it," James Rose said, turning to his friend.

Watching Spain beat Italy, Connor Falp added: "A little bit more friendly. You can go and have a bit more conversation with other people we spoke to a lot."

Read more:
A complete guide to the Women's Euros

And England players have sensed the positive vibe when leaving their base to go into the city.

Forward Lauren Hemp said: "When walking around Zurich, it's so nice to see younger girls, younger boys, wanting to grow up to be like you.

"It's incredible and makes me so proud and remembering the journey that I had once when I was a young girl."