Swiss Women's Championship
The Swiss Women's Championship, or Nationalliga A Frauen, is the top tier of women's football in Switzerland. Featuring elite teams vying for the national title and European spots, the season runs from August to May, showcasing thrilling encounters and the growth of women's soccer in the country.
History and foundation
Established in 1972 as the first official women's league in Switzerland, it evolved into Nationalliga A in 2004. YB Frauen from Bern has dominated recently, securing five straight titles up to 2023. A fun fact: In 2019, Serena Dedich of Servette became the first Swiss player to score 100 league goals. Reforms in the 2010s boosted competition and attendance.
Tournament format
Since 2020, 12 teams play a double round-robin in two groups of six. Top teams then fight for the title, bottom for survival. The champion qualifies for the UEFA Women's Champions League, runner-up for Conference League qualifiers. Matches adhere to high safety standards on home grounds.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match hover at 3.2, emphasizing attacking play. All-time top scorer Alma Spuler netted over 150 goals. Standouts include Iman Beney (YB Frauen, national team) with 20+ goals per season; Gillian Quatennens of Zürich, a set-piece specialist; and Ramona Kiesler, a veteran with German experience. The league nurtured talents like Alayah Pilgrim, now at Atalanta. In 2022/23, YB Frauen scored 78 goals.