The Swedish Women’s National Team has been on an upwards trajectory, reaching the semi-final of the 2022 European Championship, followed by a third place finish in the 2023 Women’s World Cup. They are currently ranked 6th in the FIFA World rankings, demonstrating their pedigree as a strong contender for the 2024 European Championship.
However, much of Sweden’s success is rooted in its rich history, producing footballing legends such as Caroline Seger, who made a record breaking 240 appearances for the Swedish national team. She launched her professional career at Linköping FC in the Damallsvenskan, a club previously represented by several members of the current Swedish national team, including captain Kosovare Asllani, Stina Blackstenius and Fridolina Rölfo.
Seger gained further experience by representing a range of teams across various leagues globally, including Division 1 feminine and WPS Championship in America. In 2017, she joined FC Rosengard in the Damallsvenskan where she spent the final seven years of her historic career. Seger made her national team debut in 2005 – the same year she appeared in the first of five UEFA Women’s European Championships throughout her illustrious career.
Her leadership qualities were quickly recognised as the young midfielder was made captain in 2009, after Sweden were defeated by Norway in the quarter finals of the UEFA Women’s Euros in Finland. She quickly became an indispensable figure for the national team, distinguished by her exceptional technical ability and unparalleled vision, qualities that set her apart from midfielders of her generation.
The Swedish international has made a major impact off the field too, speaking out about the need for improved conditions and equal pay for female footballers. She has also been credited for helping to develop and guide younger players within the Swedish national team, leaving an everlasting mark on the next generation. This speaks volumes about her character and enduring influence on the Swedish national team, both on and off the pitch.
Across Seger’s eighteen years representing Sweden, she achieved third place at the Women’s World Cup three times and two Olympic silver medals. The Swedish legend unfortunately never won a major international trophy throughout her illustrious career, but her legacy in inspiring the next generation has cemented her place within Swedish footballing history.
Despite battling fitness issues, Seger made the 2023 Women’s World Cup squad before playing her final international match later that year. Her incredible career was honoured in December 2024, with fans and players alike showing their appreciation for the Swedish legend.
The next generation will now be looking to build on the growing momentum of the Swedish national team as women’s football continues to grow in popularity. Sweden’s squad for the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championships is stacked full of talent from the invaluable experience of Kosovare Asllani to bright young starlets including Hammarby’s Ellen Wangerheim. This is undoubtedly a team to watch as they aim to bring the trophy home for the first time since 1984. Their next challenge: a high-stakes quarter-final clash against reigning European champions England.
