It wasn’t pretty—but it was powerful.
Sweden launched their CEV European Golden League 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 3–1 win against Portugal in Örebro. The reigning champions struggled with serve errors (13 total, 7 from Isabella Haak) and shaky reception (only 30% positive), but sheer determination pushed them over the line.
Isabella Haak led the charge with a staggering 34 points, taking nearly half of Sweden’s total swings (71 of 146) and converting 46% into points. Her sister, Anna Haak, added crucial support with 17 points and 4 blocks. Portugal fought hard—Maria Lopez and Alice Clemente scored 16 and 15 points respectively—but couldn’t outlast the home team’s firepower.
Twelve national squads are vying for this year’s crown under a travel-savvy format introduced in 2024, which allows each country to host two matches on home turf during the group phase. The tournament will climax in Ängelholm, Sweden from July 4–6, where Sweden aims to become the first back-to-back Golden League champions since Serbia’s reign from 2009 to 2011.
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