The eternal comparison – why exactly?
Many people almost automatically compare men's and women's soccer. Some do so out of interest, others critically or even disparagingly. But no matter how well-intentioned or entertaining a comparison may seem, it is often misleading. The differences in development, context, biology, and society are simply too great to treat both equally.
Different physical requirements
The human body differs in many ways depending on gender. Muscle mass, lung capacity, heart size, and hormone levels influence speed, jumping power, and endurance. This doesn't mean that women perform less—they perform differently. In relation to their own physiology, many women play at the absolute top level. Studies show that the demands of women's world championships are on par with those of men in many areas—just with different physical parameters. Source: journals.plos.org
Tactical differences = different quality
Many coaches and analysts confirm: Women's football is often technically oriented, with clear passing and fewer individual actions. This isn't due to skill, but rather to a collective understanding of the game. At the same time, women's football is often praised for its fairer approach and fewer simulations. Fewer fouls, less time-wasting – this makes it particularly enjoyable for many spectators. So the quality is there – just packaged differently.
Historical discrimination against women's football
While men's football has been promoted for over 100 years, women's football was long suppressed. In Germany, it was even banned between 1955 and 1970. In England, a fully professional league was only introduced for the first time in 2018. In Switzerland, there is still hardly any comparable infrastructure. Comparing the two worlds ignores this structural inequality. Source: wikipedia.org
Differences in media, visibility and payment
The biggest difference between men's and women's football is often money. Men's clubs have huge budgets, professional media departments, and their own stadiums. Women often play on training grounds during off-peak times. This impacts the level of play, development, and youth development. But that's changing: With the 2025 European Championship in Switzerland and record crowds, attention is increasing significantly.
What do the players themselves say?
Ramona Bachmann said in an interview: "It's not about playing like the men, but about developing our own style." Riola Xhemaili, who trained at 360Football, also emphasized: "I want to show that we women train just as passionately and professionally." These voices represent a new generation – self-confident, technically strong, but not in the shadow of the men.
What do fans say?
On Reddit and in international media, voices are increasingly rejecting the comparison. One user writes: "Comparisons are unfair. Men have a 100-year head start, and yet people still complain about women who have to work for everything themselves." Source: reddit.com
Psychology and game intelligence
An often overlooked aspect is the psychological component. Many female coaches report that girls react more emotionally intelligently in games. This translates to better anticipation, teamwork, and game overview. Especially in adolescence, girls can even have a tactical advantage. Studies also indicate less egoism and greater willingness to communicate – important characteristics in modern game systems.
Different injury profiles
Women, for example, are much more susceptible to cruciate ligament tears. The reason: anatomical differences in pelvic position and muscle strength distribution. Therefore, different prevention approaches, different training plans—and, ultimately, different expectations—are required. Source: self.com
Why these differences are valuable
The differences in football between men and women don't mean better or worse—just different. And in this difference lies the value. Women's football can develop freely if it isn't constantly compared to men's football. Just as beach volleyball, ice hockey, and track and field exist independently for men and women, the same applies here.
What does this mean for parents, girls and clubs?
Anyone with a girl of football age should know: It's not about playing like the boys. It's about girls learning to be brave, stay creative, and develop their game. At 360Football, we encourage exactly that – with targeted individual training, many female players as role models, and a training environment that takes girls seriously. Players like Ramona Bachmann, Riola Xhemaili, and Giulia Looser have trained with us – and found their own path. Learn more about our training for girls here .
Conclusion
Men's and women's football are not the same – and that's a good thing. Football is diverse. And each form has its place, its own quality, and its own fans. If you let go of the comparison, you'll see women's football in all its strength.
