November 1, 2025 – BRNO, Czech Republic
Sweden’s women’s water polo team delivered a commanding performance against Scotland in the EU Nations Water Polo Championships, cruising to a 17–7 victory in a high-energy match.
Led by head coach Silvije Cvijetic and assistant Jannica Wahlund, Sweden set the tone early, with Emma Gustafsson emerging as the standout player. Gustafsson netted an impressive seven goals, including a rapid-fire double in the first quarter that helped Sweden take control of the game.
Scotland, coached by Alan Donaldson and assistant Andrew Jessiman, showed resilience in the opening stages. Chloe Kirkwood again got on the scoreboard with another three goals in the match, her seventh goal overall in the tournament to assert herself as Scotland’s top scorer.
The first quarter was tightly contested, ending 4–3 in Sweden’s favour. Gustafsson’s early goals were matched by Kirkwood and Molly Meldrum, who opened the scoring for Scotland. However, Sweden’s depth began to shine in the second quarter, with Engla Lindman Long, Noss Becker, and Wiebke Koppen contributing to a growing lead.
By halftime, Sweden had pulled ahead 8–5, and the third quarter saw them extend their dominance. Goals from Louise Hazell, Amanda Roloff, and Lindman Long widened the gap to 11–5. Scotland struggled to respond, with only Meldrum adding to their tally.
The final quarter was a showcase of Swedish control and flair. Hazell added two more goals to her tally, while Ine Pekar and Gustafsson sealed the win with late strikes. Scotland managed two consolation goals from Sophie Stobie and Kirkwood, but the match ended decisively at 17–7.
Sweden’s disciplined defense and sharp counterattacks were key, despite multiple exclusions throughout the match. Goalkeeper Malin Andersson held firm, while Scotland’s Madeline Brown faced a barrage of shots.
With this victory, Sweden strengthens its position in the tournament, signaling its intent to challenge for the title. Scotland, meanwhile, will look to regroup and bounce back in their next fixture against GB Hawks.