Germany Collapse Against Ruthless Sweden in 1–4 Defeat

Germany suffered a humbling 1–4 loss to Sweden in their final group game at Euro 2025. Their heaviest defeat in tournament history. Despite already qualifying for the quarter-finals, the defeat raises serious questions ahead of the knockout stage.

Christian Wück’s side came out fast and aggressive. In the 7th minute, Carlotta Wamser, starting in place of injured captain Giulia Gwinn, delivered a brilliant through-ball to Jule Brand, who slotted home Germany’s opener. It was the first goal Sweden had conceded all tournament, and Brand's fourth direct contribution (2 goals, 2 assists) in three games.

But the joy was short-lived.

Just five minutes later, Germany were punished for sloppy buildup play. Stina Blackstenius, Sweden’s in-form striker, latched onto a loose ball and calmly equalized. From there, Germany’s backline unraveled.

A fluke goal in the 25th minute put Sweden ahead — Sarai Linder’s clearance ricocheted off Smilla Holmberg and into the net. Moments later, disaster struck: Wamser blocked a goal-bound shot with her hand, received a straight red card, and conceded a penalty. Fridolina Rolfö, on her 100th international appearance, converted for 3–1.

Wamser, who began the game as a standout, left the pitch in tears. It was a massive blow to a team already missing its injured captain.

Down to ten players, Germany pushed to stay in the game, but their defensive shape collapsed. Midfield control vanished, and forwards like Lea Schüller were increasingly isolated. Despite taking four shots, Schüller failed to make a real impact and was subbed off early.

Coach Wück made tactical changes after halftime, but the damage was done. Sweden shifted down a gear, conserving energy with the result in hand. Yet they still found a fourth: Lina Hurtig tapped in from close range in the 80th minute, capping a dominant performance.

It was Sweden’s first win over Germany at a Euros in seven attempts, and they now head into the quarter-finals with serious momentum.

The loss leaves Germany with more than just bruised pride. They’ll go into the quarter-finals without Wamser or Gwinn, their two right-backs, leaving Wück with a major selection headache. “We’re on the floor right now,” he admitted post-match, “but we’ll get up again.”

Germany will face the Group D winner on Saturday (20:00 CEST) in Basel, while Sweden take on the runner-up from the same group two days earlier in Zurich.

Sweden are now unbeaten in nine and have won eight straight group-stage matches at major tournaments. Germany, meanwhile, face a critical week of regrouping if they’re to remain title contenders.