Debutants Bring Fresh Competition to Swedish Women's Euro 2025 Team
Hanna Lundkvist and Smilla Holmberg debut in Euro 2025, creating healthy competition for places in the Swedish national team.
Key Points
- • Hanna Lundkvist and Smilla Holmberg both debuted against Denmark in Euro 2025.
- • Lundkvist missed the 2023 World Cup but aims to secure her position.
- • Holmberg feels grateful for her debut opportunity and expresses joy.
- • The competition between the two players is seen as positive for team growth.
In the opening match of the UEFA Women's Euro 2025, Hanna Lundkvist and 18-year-old Smilla Holmberg both made their championship debuts, showcasing the rising competition within the Swedish national team. Lundkvist, who missed the 2023 World Cup due to injury, expressed her excitement at finally being part of the tournament and acknowledged the added pressure of competing for a starting position against Holmberg. She stated, "I really believe we will get the best out of each other," emphasizing the importance of constructive competition for their development.
Holmberg, substituted in during the second half of the match against Denmark, shared her gratitude for the opportunity, saying, "It's fantastic. I've worked very hard for this chance. I enjoy it very much." Lundkvist remarked on the dynamic of having someone challenging her position, highlighting that such competition pushes them both to excel.
As the tournament progresses, the team's internal competition is expected to evolve, with potential impacts on their strategy moving forward. This shift comes as Sweden prepares for their next match against Poland, with further training planned after facing Denmark.