Sweden Narrowly Defeated by Spain in Nations League Semi-final, Set for Third Place Play-off

Sweden's women's football team faced a tough defeat against Spain in the second leg of the 2025 Nations League semi-final at Gamla Ullevi, Gothenburg, losing 1-0. Combined with the 4-0 loss in Malaga, Spain secured a 5-0 aggregate victory, advancing to the final against Germany. The only goal in the return match came in the 75th minute when Spain's Alexia Putellas, who scored three times across the two legs, found the top corner after beating Sweden's defense.

Coach Tony Gustavsson, who made significant changes by bringing in younger players like Elma Junttila Nelhage, Smilla Holmberg, Felicia Schröder, and Monica Jusu Bah, expressed disappointment with the loss but acknowledged improvements compared to the first encounter. Despite the youthful lineup, Sweden showed bravery and created chances, including a dangerous volley from Zigiotti Olme and a late shot from Filippa Angeldahl, which was saved by Spanish goalkeeper Catalina Coll. However, the midfield struggled with Spain's tactical pressure, as noted by expert Johan Elmander, who criticized Sweden's pack in the center of the pitch, linking it to the team's inability to create more scoring opportunities.

Veteran players such as Stina Blackstenius and Fridolina Rolfö started on the bench, with Rolfö expressing dissatisfaction over her exclusion. Swedish fans had mixed reactions to the overall performance, praising the younger players' courage but questioning some individuals' composure.

Looking ahead, Sweden will contest the third-place match against France, scheduled to take place between late November and early December, following France's semi-final loss to Germany. Though the Nations League campaign ended in disappointment, Sweden's squad gained valuable experience from facing the world number one ranked Spain squad, who demonstrated defensive solidity and clinical finishing to maintain their hold as reigning champions.