Sweden's Women's Floorball Team Shockingly Defeated by Switzerland in 2025 World Championship Semifinals

In a stunning upset at the 2025 Women's Floorball World Championship semifinals, Sweden's women's team lost 6-3 to Switzerland, ending their pursuit of a tenth consecutive world title. The defeat marked the first time since 2005 that Sweden will not contest the final, ending a remarkable run of nine straight championships.

The match, held in Ostrava, saw Switzerland dominate early, scoring three goals within the first 15 minutes. Seraina Fitzi opened the scoring four minutes in, followed swiftly by Chiara Gredig to give Switzerland a commanding lead. Despite a goal from Ellen Rasmussen for Sweden, the Swiss quickly extended their advantage, ultimately leading 6-1 before the closing stages. Though Sweden scored twice late on after pulling their goalie, they could not bridge the gap.

Swedish players and experts expressed deep disappointment. Ellen Rasmussen lamented, "We have only ourselves to blame. We did not reach our level, and they had Lara Heini in goal who saved everything." Former star Anna Wijk criticized Sweden's inability to adapt to Switzerland's tactics, noting, "Sweden should be playing for gold, and they should win gold. This is a huge disappointment." Coach Linn Lundström, in her debut world championship as head coach, expressed frustration over the team's struggles to break down Switzerland's defense.

Sweden now faces Finland in the bronze medal match, determined to avoid an empty tournament. Sweden has not missed out on a World Championship medal since 1997.

Switzerland, celebrating their semifinal win, will compete for their second world title, having last won in 2005. Meanwhile, Finland also suffered an unexpected semifinal loss to host nation Czech Republic.

This semifinal loss by Sweden represents a major shift in the women's floorball landscape, ending an era of dominance and opening the field for a new champion to emerge this year.