Euro 2025: Sweden dismantle Germany 4-1 to top Group C | OneFootball

Sweden delivered a dominant performance in Zurich on Saturday, defeating Germany 4–1 to finish top of Group C at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025.

The result concluded a dramatic Matchday 3 in Group C, confirming Sweden’s place as group winners and sending a major statement to the rest of the tournament field.

First half: Fast start and quick turnaround

Germany started the game strong and came flying out of the blocks. Jule Brand opened the scoring in the seventh minute, calmly slotting the ball into the net after a clever assist from Carlotta Wamser.

Despite Germany looking for a second goal, their lead didn’t last long. Just five minutes later, Stina Blackstenius equalised for Sweden with a well-timed run and finish, showing her usual poise in front of goal.

Sweden grew into the game. In the 25th minute, 19-year-old defender Smilla Holmberg showed maturity beyond her years by weaving past defenders and firing a shot that deflected into the net — putting Sweden ahead.

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Game changer: Red card and penalty

The turning point came in the 31st minute when Carlotta Wamser, who had earlier assisted Germany’s opener, was sent off for a deliberate handball on the goal line. That reduced Germany to ten players and handed Sweden a crucial penalty.

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Fridolina Rolfö, on her 100th international appearance, stepped up to take the penalty. She confidently put it away to make the scoreline 3-1. This secured the momentum that was firmly with Sweden from that moment onward.

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Second half: Sweden firmly in control

With Germany reduced to ten players, Sweden took full control of the second half. They dominated possession, dictated the tempo, and pressed high, forcing Germany deeper into their own half.

The extra player gave Sweden the freedom to stretch play, particularly down the flanks, where Johanna Rytting Kaneryd continued to cause problems with her pace and creativity.

Germany struggled to regain any momentum, and although they showed brief flashes of attacking intent, they rarely threatened Sweden’s defence.

Sweden remained patient, calmly working the ball around and waiting for the right moment to strike again. That came in the 80th minute, when substitute Lina Hurtig latched onto a precise pass from Kaneryd and slotted home a composed finish to make the scoreline 4-1.

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Final thoughts

Sweden were ruthless, composed and clinical — showing their title credentials with a dominant display. Germany looked sharp early on, but the red card changed everything and they struggled to recover.

Sweden now head into the knockout stage full of confidence, while Germany must reflect and bounce back if they hope to challenge for the trophy.

Group C: Final standings and results

Elsewhere in Group C, Poland made history winning their first-ever game at a major European tournament after a dramatic 3-2 win against Denmark. Although both teams were already eliminated following earlier defeats to Sweden and Germany, pride and momentum were on the line — and Poland seized the opportunity in style.

Poland came out with a purpose, showing attacking intent from the start. Their early pressure paid off as they scored twice within the first half, thanks to Natalia Padilla-Bidas (13′) and Ewa Pajor (20′) giving themselves a strong foundation.

The second half was much more open, with Denmark pushing for goals and Poland looking dangerous on the counter. Both sides traded goals, but Poland’s third — a well-taken effort by Martyna Wiankowska (76′) showcased quick build-up play — ultimately sealed the win. Although Denmark did manage to pull two back thanks to Thomsen and Brunn.

Sweden finished top of their group, securing their space in the quarter-finals, where they will face England on 17 July. Germany, finishing second, will face Group D winner, France, on 19 July. Poland and Denmark go home after finishing third and fourth in their group, respectively.

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