Sweden's Historic Win Over Germany at the Euros Tops Group C

Sweden's Dominant Victory Over Germany in Women’s European Championship

Sweden delivered a commanding performance against Germany at the Women’s European Championship, securing a 4-1 victory that could lead to a more favorable path to the final. The match was marked by key moments, including a red card for Germany’s Carlotta Wamser and crucial goals from Swedish players.

Sweden, the record eight-time champion, faced a strong German side but managed to gain an advantage early on. The turning point came just 30 minutes into the game when Wamser received a straight red card for using her arm to block a shot near the goal-line. This decision significantly shifted the momentum in favor of Sweden.

By the time of Wamser’s dismissal, Sweden was already leading 2-1. Stina Blackstenius opened the scoring with a goal, followed by a strike from teenage sensation Smilla Holmberg, who canceled out Jule Brand’s early opener for Germany. Fridolina Rolfo then added a penalty goal after Wamser’s red card, and substitute Lina Hurtig sealed the win late in the match.

This was the first time Sweden defeated Germany at the Euros, ensuring they topped Group C with maximum points. The victory also helped them avoid facing Spain, the World Cup champion and Euro 2025 favorite, in the semifinals. Instead, Sweden will face the runner-up of Group D, while Germany will take on the group’s top team, which is likely to be France, England, or the Netherlands.

Key Moments and Tactical Shifts

The match began with intense action, as both teams created several chances in the opening five minutes. Germany took the lead in the seventh minute when Jule Brand capitalized on a well-placed throughball from Carlotta Wamser to score. However, Sweden quickly responded, equalizing just five minutes later through a swift counterattack led by Stina Blackstenius.

In the 25th minute, Sweden took the lead in a somewhat fortunate manner. Smilla Holmberg, an 18-year-old player who recently graduated from high school, sprinted down the right flank and was tackled by Germany defender Sarai Linder. The ball ricocheted off Holmberg’s shin and found its way into the net, marking her first international goal.

Germany’s woes continued when Wamser was sent off for blocking a shot with her arm. Her absence left a significant gap in the German defense, allowing Sweden to dominate the remainder of the match. Fridolina Rolfo converted the resulting penalty, further solidifying Sweden’s lead.

Although Sweden maintained control throughout the game, they eased off in the second half, focusing on maintaining their lead rather than pressing for more goals. However, Lina Hurtig ensured the victory by adding a fourth goal in the 80th minute.

Implications for the Tournament

Both Sweden and Germany had already secured their spots in the knockout stages, but this match was crucial for determining the top spot in Group C. A draw would have been enough for Sweden due to a better goal difference, but their decisive win over Germany proved to be a strategic advantage.

As the tournament progresses, Sweden’s path to the final appears more manageable, while Germany must now face one of the top teams from Group D. The competition continues to intensify, with France, England, and the Netherlands all vying for dominance in their respective groups.

With the quarterfinals approaching, fans can expect thrilling matches as the best teams in Europe battle for the title. The outcome of this match has already set the stage for an exciting continuation of the Women’s European Championship.