Euro Women's Cup 2021: Germany versus Sweden - Initially Nervous Faces, Later Grim Expressions - Germany versus Sweden in the Women's World Cup: Initial Tension, Followed by Disappointment
In a shocking turn of events, Sweden handed Germany their biggest-ever defeat in the Women's European Championship's history, winning 4-1 in the final group game of Group C. The victory ensured Sweden won the group with a perfect record of three wins, while Germany qualified as runners-up with two wins and one loss.
The match, played at the Zurich Letzigrund Stadium, started off promisingly for Germany as Jule Brand scored the opening goal. However, Sweden fought back with a vengeance, scoring four unanswered goals through Stina Blackstenius, Smilla Holmberg (on her Euros debut), Fridolina Rolfö (scoring a penalty after Germany's Carlotta Wamser was sent off for a handball), and a fourth goal by substitute Lina Hurtig. Wamser's red card at about a third of the game significantly weakened Germany, forcing them to play with ten players and ultimately affecting their ability to maintain their lead.
The game was described as "wilder" compared to Germany's victory against Denmark. The stadium's speakers played "Macarena" and "Sweet Dreams" for the audience, adding to the electric atmosphere. Claudia Neumann and ZDF provided commentary for the game, with Neumann also commentating for the Second channel during the match.
Kathrin Lehmann, another expert, predicted a 3:2 win for Germany before the game, with five different scorers. However, her post-match analysis described the second half as poor in hope and chances. Former national player Cacau, who was present at the game, serving as an expert and making predictions, predicted a 1:1 draw as an expert but a 2:1 win for Germany as a fan.
Despite the defeat, Christian Wuck, the German team's coach, acknowledged the team was down but not out. He emphasised the need to move on from the negative aspects of the game and focus on the team's next match on July 19. Ann-Katrin Berger, another team official, echoed this sentiment, urging the team to look forward and progress to the quarterfinals.
Katja Streso, who gained access to the players' tunnel before the game, described the atmosphere as a mix of tension and anticipation. The German team and spectators were left disappointed after a "crazy exciting first half," but the Swedes and their fans might not agree with the conclusion of a disappointing game for Germany.
With this historic defeat, Germany will undoubtedly be looking to regroup and make a strong comeback in their upcoming matches. The Women's European Championship continues to be a thrilling competition, and fans can expect more exciting games in the coming days.
The Commission has also been consulted on the draft budget for the upcoming financial year, considering the financial implications of Germany's defeat in the Women's European Championship and the need to boost the team's morale through increased funding for sports facilities. Meanwhile, in the realm of football, European leagues are closely monitoring the performance of Sweden, particularly their women's team, as they continue to leave a lasting impact on the tournament with their exceptional playing style and unyielding determination.
