Scotland’s women’s curling team secured a spot in the European Championship final with a strong win over Switzerland, setting up a showdown with Sweden. This matchup in Lohja, Finland, on November 29, 2025, promises high stakes as both teams chase the gold medal and a boost toward the upcoming Olympics.
Semi-Final Showdowns Heat Up the Ice
The semi-finals delivered intense action at the 2025 European Curling Championships. Scotland faced Switzerland in one game, while Sweden took on Norway in the other. Fans watched closely as these matches decided who would battle for the title.
Scotland started even with Switzerland, but pulled ahead in key moments. By the sixth end, they led 5-3 after a smart hit by their fourth player. Switzerland tried to rally, but a missed draw in the seventh end handed Scotland a steal of two points, pushing the score to 7-3.
Sweden’s game against Norway stayed close throughout. The Swedes built an early lead, but Norway fought back with steals and precise shots. In the end, Sweden’s skip made a crucial draw to score three points in the ninth end, clinching a 7-6 victory.
These results highlight the skill and strategy in women’s curling this year. Both winning teams showed resilience under pressure, a trend seen in recent international events like the World Championships.
Scotland’s Surprising Rise to the Final
Scotland’s journey to the final surprised many, including their own skip. After a mixed round-robin performance with five wins and four losses, they found their form in the playoffs.
In the semi-final, Scotland built momentum early. They tied at 3-3 before breaking away. Their sweepers played a big role, guiding stones with precision. The final score of 8-5 reflected their control after the midway point.
Team members expressed joy after the win. The skip noted they aimed to make the most of the opportunity, turning a tough season into a shot at gold. This run echoes Scotland’s past successes, like their 2021 European title win over Sweden.
Scotland’s stats in the tournament stand out:
- Wins: 6 (including playoffs)
- Losses: 4
- Key strength: Steals in crucial ends
This performance could signal a revival for Scottish women’s curling, especially with Olympic qualifiers on the horizon.
Sweden’s Steady Path to Another Title Shot
Sweden topped the round-robin with an 8-1 record, earning them the favorite status. Their semi-final against Norway tested that dominance, but they prevailed with smart plays.
The game saw Sweden lead 4-2 by the sixth end. Norway narrowed it to 4-3, then stole in the eighth to go up 5-4. Sweden responded with a game-changing three-point score in the ninth.
Anna Hasselborg’s leadership shone through. Her well-judged draws and hits kept Sweden in control. This win adds to Sweden’s strong history, including multiple European golds in recent years.
Here’s a quick look at the semi-final scores:
| Matchup | Score | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| Scotland vs Switzerland | 8-5 | Scotland |
| Sweden vs Norway | 7-6 | Sweden |
Sweden’s consistency this season positions them well for the final. They have won four of the last five meetings against Scotland in major events.
Key Players to Watch in the Final
Stars from both teams will drive the action in the gold medal game. Scotland’s Rebecca Morrison impressed with her hitting accuracy in the semi-final. Her ability to score multiple points in an end could be decisive.
On Sweden’s side, Anna Hasselborg brings experience from Olympic and world stages. Her draw in the semi-final turned the game, showing her calm under pressure.
Other players add depth. Scotland’s sweepers, like Sophie Sinclair, provide strong support. Sweden’s Sara McManus excels in setups that lead to big scores.
Fans should watch for strategic battles, such as guard placements and hammer advantages. These elements often decide close finals in curling.
Historical Rivalry and What’s at Stake
Sweden and Scotland have a rich history in women’s curling. Scotland claimed gold in 2021 by beating Sweden 7-4. Sweden has dominated more recently, winning the last two European titles.
This final carries extra weight in an Olympic year. A win boosts world rankings and confidence heading into qualifiers. Both teams aim for medals that could propel them to the 2026 Winter Games in Italy.
The event in Lohja has drawn global attention, with new tech like electronic handles trialed for fair play. This innovation aims to reduce violations and enhance the sport’s integrity.
Looking Ahead to the Gold Medal Clash
The final pits Sweden’s experience against Scotland’s momentum. Experts predict a tight game, possibly decided in the later ends. Weather in Finland remains cold, perfect for ice conditions.
Curling enthusiasts can catch the action live, with broadcasts highlighting every stone. This matchup underscores the growing popularity of women’s curling worldwide.
What do you think will happen in the final? Share your predictions in the comments and spread the word about this exciting event to fellow sports fans.
