Sweden's Veteran Team Poised for Medal Push as Nathalie Hagman Nears 1000 Goals at 2025 Women's Handball World Championship

The 2025 Women's Handball World Championship, held from November 26 to December 14 across Germany and the Netherlands, features a highly experienced Swedish squad aiming to break their medal drought. Sweden competes in Group G against Brazil, the Czech Republic, and Cuba.

Sweden fields its most seasoned team ever, with an average of 111 international caps per player. Several veterans will appear in their 13th to 19th major championship, underscoring the team's depth and experience. Coach Tomas Axnér has expressed optimism, stating Sweden is now closer than ever to securing a medal despite stiff competition from powerhouses Norway, France, and Denmark.

In the spotlight is star player Nathalie Hagman, who is on the verge of scoring her 1000th goal for Sweden during the championship. Hagman, once dismissed early in her career for her unconventional style, now embraces the milestone on the world stage rather than a minor qualifying match. She said, "It would be fun to do it now in the championship and not in some obscure qualifying match in the spring."

The tournament, expanded to 32 teams, may present some disparities in competition, but Sweden’s blend of experience and talent positions them as legitimate contenders. Matches are scheduled for November 27, 29, and December 1 in the group stage, with the goal of advancing to the quarter-finals and beyond.