After the first period, the Czech Republic led 3–0, and it looked like it would be another weak match for the Swedes after the defeat against the USA in the semifinals.
But in the second period, the Swedish team mounted a comeback, cutting the deficit to 4–2 after goals by Moa Stridh and Inez Nygren.
Early in the third, Sweden reduced the deficit to 4–3 after a second goal by Stridh, raising hopes for a first Swedish World Junior Championship medal since the silver in 2023.
With a minute and a half left in the match, the Czech Republic had their 5–3 goal disallowed, and Sweden pressed for an equalizer.
Despite a major advantage in the final seconds, the Swedes were unable to equalize and finished fourth.
The final will be played between the USA and Canada on Monday night, local time in Sweden.
