Sweden’s Y17 national bandy team can once again call themselves world champions after an impressive performance in the World Championship final against Finland. The match, held in Sandviken on January 19, ended with a decisive 7–1 (4–1) victory for Sweden. The final marked the culmination of a successful tournament, which, together with the U19 World Championship, took place in Sandviken from January 16 to 19.
The team quickly took the lead and methodically built their game, making it difficult for Finland to fight their way back. Goals came from several players, showcasing the depth of the squad.
Reclaiming the Title
With this victory, Sweden not only secured the world championship title but also reclaimed the title previously held by Finland, bringing both joy and relief to head coach Anders Torhall.
Congratulations on the gold! How does it feel to stand here as world champions?
“It feels fantastic! It’s a mix of joy and relief, and I’m especially happy for the boys,” says Torhall.
How would you summarize the team’s journey through the tournament?
“We’ve grown into the tournament more and more. Finland and Norway are excellent teams that gave us strong competition, particularly in the first three games. In the fourth match against Norway, we were able to play more freely once we had secured a spot in the final. Then we saved our best for last and played an incredible final.”
“Our team cohesion has been our strength, along with our solid performance in every position. Everyone wants to contribute and take part in driving the game forward. We are not dependent on any single player.”
“Fought Through the Entire Tournament”
Melvin Svensson, catching his breath after the final, expressed his delight at the gold medal around his neck, presented by the Swedish Bandy Federation’s chairperson Ingrid Amrén and secretary-general Pär Gustafsson.
“It feels amazing. We’ve fought hard throughout the entire tournament, and in the end, it paid off. It’s an incredible feeling,” says Svensson, a forward for the national team and a player for Edsbyns IF.
A convincing victory. Tell us about the match.
“We stuck to the game plan and executed it perfectly to secure this win. We did it in a fantastic way,” Svensson continues.
You received three individual awards: MVP, top scorer, and forward of the tournament. How do you view your own performance?
“It was a bit shaky at the start, but then I found my rhythm, and things started flowing as they usually do.”
Congratulations to Sweden’s U17 national team for their outstanding performance and world championship title!
Goal Scorers in the Final:
Sweden:
2′, 70′, 71′ Melvin Svensson
17′ Isak Berlin
42′ Alwin Andersson
46′ Hugo Jonsson
80′ Martin Sellin
Finland:
29′ Väinö Laine