Injury Challenges Mark Sweden’s Handball World Championship Opener Victory

Sweden's women's handball team secured a 31-23 win against the Czech Republic in their opening match at the 2025 World Championship, despite key injury setbacks affecting their squad composition.

The team’s lineup was notably impacted by the absence of defender Anna Lagerquist, who was left out due to a lingering foot injury. Head coach Tomas Axnér remains optimistic about her recovery, stating, "Anna is getting closer every day, and we believe and hope she will be ready to play next week." In her place, reserve players Vilma Matthijs Holmberg and goalkeeper Evelina Eriksson were included, while playmaker Jenny Carlson made a successful return from a six-week break caused by a stress fracture.

While the victory was comfortable on the scoreboard, Sweden's performance had mixed moments. The match remained tied 10-10 after 21 minutes, even though the Czech team had two players penalized early on. Carlson contributed significantly to turning the game around, assisting and scoring crucial goals in the buildup to Sweden's 17-13 halftime lead.

Offensively, Clara Lerby and Emma Lindqvist stood out, each netting six goals. Goalkeeper Johanna Bundsen’s performance was pivotal in stabilizing the Swedish defense, especially during the second half. However, concerns about defensive stability persist, with players like Linn Blohm highlighting that allowing 13 goals was too high and emphasizing the need for improved coordination with the goalkeeper.

Lindqvist summed up the team's state, saying, "I feel quite stable overall," while also acknowledging areas needing refinement. Coach Axnér expressed satisfaction with the victory and readiness to progress, commenting, "Now we have cleaned up the premiere, now we are in the tournament. I am satisfied with much."

Looking ahead, Sweden will next face Cuba, a team that suffered a heavy 20-41 loss to Brazil in their opening match. This success in the opener provides a positive foundation, though the team remains conscious of the need to bolster their defense and capitalize on scoring opportunities as the tournament continues.