Sweden dealt Germany a historic blow in the Women’s European Championship, achieving a 4-1 victory that secured their position at the top of Group C.
The German team, which progressed to the quarterfinals, faced challenges when Carlotta Wamsel received a red card in the first half.
Finishing the group with a perfect nine points from three matches, Sweden will now head to Group D, which includes France, the UK, the Netherlands, and Wales, where Germany topped the group.
By defeating Germany, Sweden has paved a potentially smoother path to the finals, avoiding a semi-final clash with the World Cup champions and Euro 2025 favorites, Spain.
“Creating positive vibes and building confidence is crucial. I’m excited for what’s ahead,” remarked goal-scorer Stina Blackstenius.
This match marked the first time Germany conceded four goals in a Women’s Euro event. Their previous loss by multiple goals was 3-1 to Denmark in the 1993 third-place playoff.
German player Clara Baar stated, “We started the game strongly and were the better team, but lost the momentum in just 10 minutes. It’s incredibly disappointing, and we need to move on quickly.”
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Germany initiated the game strongly, maneuvering through Sweden’s defense until a pass to Jennifer Fork was deflected. However, the Swedish team responded within five minutes, with striker Blackstenius executing a perfectly-timed run to score after receiving a pass from Kosovare Aslani, sending the shot past goalkeeper Anne Catlin Burger.
Although Germany appeared threatening whenever they crossed into Swedish territory, the Swedes managed to score again in the 25th minute through Smira Holmberg.
The match turned in the 32nd minute when Wamsel received a straight red card for a deliberate handball, allowing Fridrina Rolf to convert the penalty, marking her 100th international match with a goal.
“The red card changed everything,” said German coach Christian Wück. “With one less player, it was impossible to get back into the match.”
Germany attempted to rally in the second half, but Sweden capitalized on their numerical advantage, with substitute Lina Hartch sealing the victory with a close-range finish in the 80th minute.
Sweden is set to play their quarter-final match in Zurich next Thursday, while Germany will have an additional two days to prepare for their match in Basel on Saturday.
This report incorporates information from ESPN Research, Reuters, and the Associated Press.
Fan Take: This stunning defeat for Germany highlights the shifting dynamics in women’s soccer, as Sweden solidifies itself as a formidable contender. For fans, this match not only raises the stakes for the ongoing tournament but also signals an exciting evolution in the competition, promising ever more thrilling clashes in the future.
