Sports

Germany and Sweden renew long women's rivalry at the Euros

11.07.2025, 14:31

Germany and Sweden cross swords for the 16th time at a major women's football tournament on Saturday, and the Germans hope to continue their good record at these events.

Germany have won five of their six matches at the Euros, including finals in 1995 and 2001, while the last one in the 2017 group stage ended 0-0.

Germany have also won all four Olympic meetings, including the 2016 final and bronze medal match in 2004. The two sides have met five times at the World Cup as well, where Sweden hold a 3-2 edge, but Germany won the 2003 final.

Nia Künzer scored Germany's winner in that match, and now says in her role as national team sporting director that there is "a certain history" in the long-standing rivalry which will see the 32nd meeting overall in Zurich.

"We are on a good path but we know that we can't be too euphoric. We can judge our previous performances quite well," Künzer said.

Both teams are already qualified for the quarter-finals after wins against Poland and Denmark, but at stake is first place in the group. Sweden only need a draw due to a superior goal difference while the Germans have to win to finish top.

"We know that they are very strong in the air, very physical, and also strong on set pieces," German centre back Rebecca Knaak said.

Sweden hope to end a long trophy drought at the Euros in Switzerland, having only won the inaugural edition in 1984. Germany have a record eight tiles, but the last one was in 2013.