Germany’s hopes of securing the top spot in Group C of the Women’s European Championship were dashed on Saturday evening after a comprehensive 4-1 defeat to Sweden. Despite an early lead courtesy of a goal from Jule Brand in the 7th minute, the German team struggled to maintain momentum.
Sweden mounted a swift response, with Stina Blackstenius equalizing at the 12th minute, followed by goals from Smilla Holmberg (25th minute), Fridolina Rolfö from a penalty (34th minute) and Lina Hurtig (80th minute). The match was further complicated when German player Carlotta Wamser received a red card in the 31st minute, leaving her team at a numerical disadvantage.
The result sees Germany remain in second place in Group C. They will now face the winner of Group D in the quarter-finals next Saturday at 9:00 PM local time. Potential opponents for Germany include France, England and the Netherlands. Sweden, meanwhile, will play the second-placed team from the same group two days prior.
In the group’s other fixture, Poland secured a 3-2 victory over Denmark. Both Poland and Denmark had already been eliminated from contention prior to this final group stage match.