Sweden had the pleasure of seeing five skiers among the top 22 in the men's pursuit – but none were particularly close to the podium in Antholz. Sebastian Samuelsson became the best Swedish skier after climbing from 21st place to ninth, with two misses.
If I had started with a better position, I would have fought for the podium today. This January has been the best I've had in my career, so it's good, he says.
The Biathlon World Championship starts on February 12 – and with just over two weeks to go until the championship, Samuelsson is now promising medals.
Last year, I stood here and lied, saying I would take World Championship medals, this time I don't need to lie, I know I'll do it. I know I can be among the top contenders in every race, I'm going to the World Championship to win medals, he says.
"I'm having a really tough time"
Martin Ponsiluoma showed good skiing form when he finished 13th – despite six misses.
Today's shooting is way too bad. I'm having a really tough time, especially in the standing position, I stand for an incredibly long time in both series and really have to work for every shot. It's incredibly tough, I don't really know why. It was incredibly tough on the shooting range, but on the track, it feels good, he says.
Jesper Nelin finished 15th, Viktor Brandt crossed the finish line as 18th – a significant climb from his starting position as 51st – and Emil Nykvist fought his way across the finish line as 22nd.
Personal best for Brandt
For Brandt, the 18th place was a personal best in the World Cup.
It's completely fantastic. Yesterday was a dark day for me, and I pushed myself down pretty hard, but when I finally let go, it was time to recharge for today, and I'm super happy with the day, he says to SVT.
A nice confirmation ahead of the Biathlon World Championship.
It's so incredibly nice, really something to take with you. I'm super happy that I managed to do it today, says Brandt.
World Cup leader Sturla Holm Lægreid, Norway, won the competition ahead of his countryman Tarjei Bø, and Italian Tommaso Giacomel finished third.
