Ebba Andersson Claims First Podium of the Season with Third Place in Dramatic Trondheim Skiathlon

In a thrilling skiathlon race at Trondheim, Swedish skier Ebba Andersson secured her first podium finish of the season by placing third. The competition featured a dynamic group of ten skiers, including four Swedes: Andersson, Moa Ilar, Frida Karlsson, and another competitor. The race was ultimately won by American Jessie Diggins, who launched a decisive move in the final uphill stretch, with Norway's Heidi Weng taking second place. Andersson clinched third place in a closely contested sprint, edging out her fellow Swedish teammates Ilar and Karlsson.

Andersson described her strategy as "offensive throughout the race," though she acknowledged not having enough strength to completely break away from her rivals. She expressed satisfaction with reaching the podium, stating that this result will boost her confidence ahead of critical competitions scheduled for February.

Meanwhile, the Swedish men's team faced challenges in the same event. Edvin Anger, initially in fifth place before the ski change, markedly dropped in pace during the skate skiing segment, ultimately finishing 24th. Viaplay commentator Jonas Karlsson remarked on Anger's significant drop, asking, "Where did he go?" Norwegian Johannes Hösflot Kläbo dominated the men's field to claim his 101st World Cup victory. Other Swedish men competitors included William Poromaa, who placed 28th, and Alvar Myhlback, finishing 46th as the last among the Swedish contingent.

This race highlighted both the strength and struggles within the Swedish cross-country skiing squad, with Andersson's podium providing a positive boost amid otherwise tough results for the men.