Sweden's women's national team has secured a coveted spot in the knockout stage of the UEFA Women's Euro 2025, showcasing their aerial prowess in a dominant performance. The Blågult, as the Swedish team is known, clinched their place with a resounding 3-0 victory over Poland on Tuesday. This win not only propelled Sweden into the quarterfinals but also guaranteed Germany's progression from Group C.
The Swedes' triumph was built on a foundation of relentless attacking, particularly down the right flank, which repeatedly exposed the Polish defense. All three goals were headers, highlighting Sweden's strength in the air. Stina Blackstenius, the center forward, initiated the scoring barrage in the 28th minute. Captain Kosovare Asllani added to the lead in the 52nd minute, and substitute Lina Hurtig sealed the victory with a crucial third goal in the 77th minute.
This commanding performance ensured Sweden topped their group based on goal difference, edging out Germany. Securing the top spot means Sweden needs only a draw in their upcoming match against Germany to maintain their position and potentially avoid a semi-final clash with Euro 2025 favorites, Spain.
Poland, making their major tournament debut, struggled to contain the Swedish attack and found it difficult to create scoring opportunities. Their star forward, Ewa Pajor, was effectively isolated by the Swedish defense. Despite a late surge, Poland was unable to score a consolation goal, with Milena Kokosz's shot hitting the post.
Sweden's qualification journey to Euro 2025 also saw them sweep past Serbia in the play-offs with an 8-0 aggregate victory. The team celebrated their qualification by paying tribute to Caroline Seger, who recently retired with 240 caps for her country and two Olympic silver medals. Sweden, a former champion, is aiming to reclaim the trophy for the first time since 1984. However, they have faced setbacks, losing six finals across the Euros, World Cup, and Olympics.
The team's Euro 2025 squad, coached by Peter Gerhardsson, blends experience with emerging talent. Veteran players like Sofia Jakobsson, Linda Sembrant, and Kosovare Asllani bring a wealth of experience, while younger players add fresh energy. The squad includes goalkeepers Tove Enblom, Jennifer Falk, and Emma Holmgren; defenders Jonna Andersson, Nathalie Bjorn, Magdalena Eriksson, Amanda Ilestedt, Smilla Holmberg, Hanna Lundkvist, Amanda Nilden, and Linda Sembrant; midfielders Filippa Angeldahl, Kosovare Asllani, Hanna Bennison, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, and Madelen Janogy; and forwards Stina Blackstenius, Lina Hurtig, Fridolina Rolfö, Ellen Wangerheim, Julia Zigiotti Olme, Rebecka Blomqvist, and Sofia Jakobsson.
Sweden's path to the knockout stage wasn't without its challenges during the qualifying matches. They faced tough competition in Group A3, drawing 1-1 with England at Wembley and losing 0-1 to France. However, they bounced back with a 3-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland. In the UEFA Women's Nations League, they secured wins against Denmark (2-1 and 6-1) and faced draws against Wales (1-1) and Italy (0-0).
With their ticket to the quarterfinals secured, Sweden is now focused on their final group stage match against Germany. A draw would be enough to win the group and potentially secure a more favorable path in the knockout rounds. The team's aerial dominance, combined with their strong defense and experienced squad, makes them a formidable contender for the Euro 2025 title.
