It was hosted for the first time in Belgium, from 28 January to 8 February 2014, following a decision of the UEFA Executive Committee in December 2011.

The defending champions, Spain, were beaten in the semifinals by Russia and thus failed to reach their fifth consecutive tournament final.

[3] Spain defeated Portugal 8–4 in the third place match to secure a ninth consecutive podium finish.

The knockout stage matches, which includes quarter-finals, semi-finals, third place play-off and the final, will be played at the Sportpaleis arena.

In the third place match, the extra-time is skipped and the decision goes directly to kicks from the penalty mark.