We’re confident in our chances: Sweden believes in success at the Women’s Euros

If you glance at the odds from various bookmakers, you’ll notice a familiar group of names leading the pack in the race for the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, with Spain, England, and the Netherlands firmly in the mix. However, Sweden stands out as a potential “dark horse,” ready to challenge for the coveted gold medals in Switzerland.

But don’t tell the Swedish players that they’re underdogs; they’re brimming with confidence as they prepare for their opening match in Group C tomorrow against Denmark in Geneva.

“It’s not a curse to express your thoughts,” asserts midfielder Kosovare Asllani when queried about her predictions for the Euros, “I believe Sweden will come out on top!”

Sweden’s only significant triumph came at Euro 84, and since then, the Blågult have finished as runners-up three times in the Euros, as well as at two Olympic Games and one FIFA Women’s World Cup.

“I came across a humorous remark that encapsulates our journey in these tournaments – Sweden is always the bridesmaid, never the bride. We tend to make it to the final but fall short of the title,” reflects the 35-year-old Asllani, although she doesn’t seem affected by the bridesmaid image.

“We are a championship team. I believe we perform our best when it counts. We possess a solid blend of experience and youthful enthusiasm, and it’s about honing that final bit of self-belief to elevate ourselves further.”

“Regardless of the quality in our squad, self-confidence can be pivotal in tournaments,” she notes.

While Sweden missed the mark for the 2024 Paris Olympics, they’ve consistently reached at least the semi-finals in five of the last six major competitions.

Real Madrid’s Filippa Angeldahl is keenly aware of the recent close calls but views them as a motivating factor rather than a setback.

“Reflecting on our past championships, we’ve always been contenders. Yet, we’ve never captured the title. That’s something we all believe we can change. Having faith in ourselves is crucial during a championship.”

“I think every Swede aspires for a European Championship gold. We certainly have faith in ourselves.”

The confidence of the seasoned players is inspiring the younger members of the squad, including 22-year-old right-back Hanna Lundkvist, whose sole objective is to hoist the trophy.

“I’m determined to win. Entertaining any other thought would be entirely misguided. I genuinely believe we can achieve this,” states Lundkvist.