Denmark Faces Challenges Ahead of Key Match Against Sweden in Women's Euro 2025
Denmark's women's football faces significant challenges as they prepare to compete against Sweden in the Euro Championship opener.
Key Points
- • Denmark's head coach describes the country's women's football as lagging far behind Sweden's.
- • Only 3,500 fans attended a recent women's match in Denmark, highlighting a need for increased support.
- • Pernille Harder acknowledges progress in Danish women's football but calls for greater public interest.
- • Sweden and Denmark's upcoming match is critical for Sweden's chances in the Euro Championship.
As Denmark prepares to face Sweden in their Euro Championship opener on July 4, 2025, challenges in women's football development loom large. Head coach Andrée Jeglertz emphasized that Denmark is lagging considerably behind Sweden, noting in a recent interview that there is a lack of prestige in coaching women’s football in Denmark compared to Sweden. With only 3,500 fans attending recent matches, Jeglertz highlighted the need for more emphasis and resources from the Danish Football Association (DBU) to elevate women's football status.
The Danish women's team had their latest encounter against Sweden end in a heavy 1-6 defeat, which Jeglertz termed a wake-up call to address their shortcomings. Star player Pernille Harder also noted that while progress has been made, the interest in women’s football still requires significant improvements. The goal is not just for better performance on the pitch but to foster a more supportive environment for the women's game in Denmark.
This upcoming match is crucial for Sweden as a victory would put them halfway towards the quarterfinals, especially given their dominant previous encounters against Denmark. Sweden's Fridolina Rolfö's participation remains uncertain due to a foot injury, adding a level of unpredictability to the match. Jakob's perspective sheds light on Denmark’s developmental struggle amid the heightened competitive environment.