Thrilling 3-3 Draw Opens 2025 Women's Innebandy World Championship Between Sweden and Finland

The 2025 Women's Innebandy World Championship kicked off in Brno, Czech Republic, with a dramatic 3-3 draw between arch-rivals Sweden and Finland. This intense opening match marked Finland's strongest result against Sweden since 2007, signaling a highly competitive tournament ahead.

Sweden began powerfully, taking a 2-0 lead by the second period thanks to goals including one from debutant Evelina Peterson. However, Finland responded fiercely, scoring three rapid goals in less than three minutes, including strikes from Suvi Hämäläinen, Milla Nordlund, and Meri-Helmi Höynälä, to seize a 3-2 advantage. Sweden equalized before the second period ended, with no goals scored in the final period, cementing a hard-fought draw.

Finnish captain Veera Kauppi praised the team's depth and resilience, expressing satisfaction with the performance despite personally not scoring. She highlighted her defensive role and teamwork alongside her sister Oona and confidently proclaimed Finland a strong favorite to win the tournament, citing recent successes and superior offense and defense compared to Sweden. Kauppi also noted that Sweden had begun incorporating tactics inspired by Finland under their new coach Linn Lundström.

From the Swedish side, commentator Anna Wijk expected more from some players despite the team managing to come from behind to claw back a draw. Ellen Rasmussen, who scored Sweden’s first goal, was named Player of the Match, with goalkeeper Lovisa Hedin also earning acclaim for her outstanding performance in goal.

The match was broadcast live on SVT Play, with fans following the intense rivalry that set the stage for the championship. Sweden’s squad included promising players like Mira Markström, who contributes powerful shots influenced by her hockey experience.

The teams will continue their campaigns with Finland facing Slovakia next, in a match broadcast live on Yle. This opening draw has raised anticipation for what promises to be a fiercely contested tournament between these floorball powerhouses.