Hammarby Takes Top Spot in Damallsvenskan After Narrow Victory Over Malmö FF

Hammarby secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Malmö FF in the Damallsvenskan, propelling them to the top of the league with 39 points, just ahead of Malmö’s 38 points. The match, held at 3 arena and attended by 6,372 fans, showcased Hammarby’s dominance early on. Ellen Wangerheim scored the opening goal in the 10th minute with a header from a corner, marking her 13th goal of the season. Julie Blakstad then added a second goal with a precise shot before halftime, bringing her total to 10 for the year.

Despite controlling much of the match, Hammarby faced a late scare as goalkeeper Melina Loeck made a costly mistake, allowing Malmö’s Nathalie Hoff Persson to score in the 88th minute. This moment, however, was insufficient to thwart Hammarby’s victory, marking Malmö’s first loss after a 105-day unbeaten streak.

Hammarby’s strong performance has cemented their status as league favorites, particularly following such an important win against a rival. Coach and players praised the team's efforts, with Wangerheim noting that their aggressive play set an early tone for the match. The victory also holds significance for the title race, as there are nine matches remaining in the season, indicating that every point is vital.

In addition to Hammarby’s win, Piteå also managed a victory over AIK, helping them distance themselves from the relegation zone. Hammarby’s current standing emphasizes the importance of their upcoming matches, where maintaining momentum will be key in the race for the SM-guld.