Sweden Women's Handball Team Wins Opener but Faces Performance Criticism at 2025 World Championship

The Swedish women's handball team secured a 31-23 victory against the Czech Republic in their opening match of the 2025 World Championship, held across Germany and the Netherlands. While the win continued Sweden's undefeated streak against the Czech Republic, experts and insiders voiced concerns about the team's performance. Handball analyst Magnus Grahn noted it took the Swedish team roughly 40 to 45 minutes to find their rhythm, describing the initial gameplay as tentative and sloppy. Johanna Ahlm also expressed disappointment, stating she wanted to leave the match with a better feeling about the team's play.

Despite standout individual performances, including the Czech goalkeeper Novotna earning Player of the Match, Sweden appeared somewhat unbalanced, signaling that improvements are necessary as they face tougher opponents. Upcoming group stage challenges include matches against Cuba and a crucial "group final" against Brazil, a team noted for its unorthodox style, which is expected to test Sweden's resilience and adaptability.

Coach Tomas Axnér and the team will likely focus on rectifying early-game sluggishness as they seek to advance to the knockout rounds. With key players like Jamina Roberts, Johanna Bundsen, and Nathalie Hagman in action, Sweden aims to sharpen their collective play and prove their championship credentials in the demanding schedule extending through mid-December.