BK Häcken and Hammarby IF have advanced to the Europa Cup final after dramatic semifinals. Häcken eliminated Eintracht Frankfurt 3–1 on aggregate despite a return-leg loss, while Hammarby beat Sparta Prag 5–2 overall. It will be the first all-Swedish final in the competition's history.
BK Häcken advanced past Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa Cup semifinal with a 0–1 return-leg loss on Maundy Thursday evening. Despite German dominance, the scoreline did not overturn Häcken's 3–1 first-leg lead, thanks to defensive efforts and blocked shots.
"It is fantastic for Swedish football," said Häcken coach Elena Sadiku. She predicts a Swedish winner but criticizes the two-legged final format: "A final should be a single match."
Hammarby secured their spot more comfortably with a 2–0 home win over Sparta Prag. Fanny Peterson scored 1–0 after half an hour, followed by Vilde Hasund's decisive goal in the second half.
"We are very excited. A European final is huge," said Hasund. The teams will also meet in the Swedish Cup final on May 16.
Swedish Frankfurt players Amanda Ilestedt and Rebecka Blomqvist were disappointed. Nicole Anyomi headed in 1–0 off the bar, but they came no closer. "Given the match picture, it feels sour," said Ilestedt, who still welcomes the Swedish final.
