UEFA.com works better on other browsers
For the best possible experience, we recommend using Chrome, Firefox or Microsoft Edge.

“Have fun and do your best”

With the European Women’s Under-19 Championship finals in full swing in Switzerland, Swiss icons and tournament ambassadors Caroline Abbé and Martina Moser are encouraging the players to seize the moment.

Caroline Abbé (left) and Martina Moser - tournament ambassadors for the finals in Switzerland
Caroline Abbé (left) and Martina Moser - tournament ambassadors for the finals in Switzerland ©UEFA

Having both followed the path from Under-19 level to senior success, Switzerland icons Caroline Abbé and Martina Moser feel confident that this tournament will serve as another springboard to the top.

The tournament ambassadors honed their talents in the youth game before collecting over 120 caps apiece for their country, and they are excited to see more young players use this summer’s finals to trace the same route.

Switzerland has a training academy for girls in Bienne
Switzerland has a training academy for girls in Bienne©UEFA

“You learn how to deal with greater pressure,” says Moser, who appeared at the 2002, 2004 and 2005 editions. “You become a better footballer and you can measure yourself against the best players. It’s an important and crucial phase in a footballer’s career. 

“The experience you gain Is hugely important as it can help you later as you work your way up to the top level. Playing international matches helps you gauge where you are and what you may be lacking compared with the best players. As a young, ambitious player, it’s important to measure yourself against others.”

A training session at the Bienne academy
A training session at the Bienne academy©UEFA

“It’s the key phase that prepares you for joining the senior side,” adds Abbé, who scored at the 2005 and 2006 finals and also teamed up with Moser at the 2006 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. “You have to work hard to fulfil your potential. It made me realise what I was capable of. Playing in three international tournaments also taught me how to become mentally stronger.” 

Those lessons proved crucial as the duo represented Switzerland at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup and UEFA Women’s EURO 2017. Both retired from international football after the latter tournament in the Netherlands, making way for a new generation of players who have benefited from the development of women’s football in Switzerland – not least thanks to their own efforts.

The Bienne centre offers excellent fitness facilities for the young talents
The Bienne centre offers excellent fitness facilities for the young talents©UEFA

“Interest levels increased during the 2015 World Cup and 2017 EURO qualifiers and support is noticeably growing,” says Moser. “Young girls now also have female role models. Unlike in the past, women can now become professionals. The growth of the game in recent years has brought huge changes.” 

“A lot more clubs are investing in women’s football and giving girls a better education,” explains Abbé, who also has advice for the youngsters taking part in this summer’s tournament.

“Have fun and do your very best”, she says – a message echoed by her former team-mate. “Don’t put yourself under too much pressure. Just show people what you can do and make the most of the experience.”

This article appears in the UEFA European Women's Under-19 Championship final tournament programme