Sweden exits Euro 2025 after penalty shootout loss to England

Sweden's 18-year-old defender Smilla Holmberg missed the decisive penalty in a dramatic shootout loss to England in the Euro 2025 women's quarterfinals, a moment that ended Sweden's campaign. Holmberg, who was visibly emotional after the miss, received widespread support from teammates, fans, and notable figures including Swedish football legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who sent her encouraging messages reminding her to keep believing in herself and not let a miss define her career. Ibrahimovic, part-owner of Holmberg's club Hammarby, shared his own experience of missing penalties early in his career to emphasize the importance of resilience. Sweden's coach Peter Gerhardsson defended the decision to let Holmberg take such a crucial penalty despite her youth and relative inexperience, highlighting the unpredictable nature of shootouts and the collective responsibility of the team. The shootout itself was extraordinary, involving 14 players and several misses, including from Sweden's goalkeeper Jennifer Falk. Despite the loss, Holmberg's courage and potential were praised, framing her as a promising talent who will grow from the experience.