Sweden remains in dream mode, carving a path that has already toppled two favorites. With two games left, the Nordic team feels poised to make history and carries confident energy into the next clash.
Relating to
-
Alexia Putellas: The leader of silence and wanting more
-
Salma Paralluelo: Two World Cups already, third in sight
-
12 August 2023 Women’s World Cup results today
Sweden’s representatives Nathalie Bjorn and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd spoke with SPORT and Iberian press, highlighting that they feature world-class players who push Spain to the limit ahead of the semi-final showdown.
“The team feels strong after a rest day. We’re ready,” Bjorn stated. “I’m enjoying every minute. We’re a very special group, and our victory over the United States underscored that. We’ve eliminated top teams like the USA and Japan, which only adds to our belief.” Kaneryd added that the journey has been remarkable so far and the squad is eager to continue, feeling a quiet confidence about the upcoming match.
Experience, advantage
One notable edge for Sweden is experience. The team earned bronze in the last World Cup, silver at the Tokyo Olympics, and reached the semi-finals in the Eurocup. Spain, by contrast, has seen its deepest runs in the World Cup up to the Round of 16 and in the Euro up to the quarter-finals.
“Experience can matter, and we’ve learned from every step along the way. We’ve done semifinals, we’ve faced overtime, and we’ve taken penalties. We know we can win in different ways, and that breadth of knowledge helps,” Kaneryd explained. Bjorn recalled the last Eurocup semi-final, where a 4-0 defeat to England became a learning moment: “That hurt, but it prepared us for the World Cup, where we now know how to handle the semi-final pressure. The team has spent time together, growing stronger and more cohesive.”
Admiration for Aitana
The Swedish camp views the upcoming duel as tightly contested. “Who’s the favorite? It’s hard to say—maybe a 50-50,” Bjorn mused, noting Spain’s high-caliber players who dominate possession. “Spain is a superb side with top-tier players across the pitch. Many of them play for Barça and recently claimed the Champions League, which adds to their experience. The standout is Aitana; she’ll require close attention.” Bjorn added that their opponent’s best player is young but already among the world’s best.
Kahlenholm, another Swedish voice on the squad, echoed the sentiment about Spain’s strength and their own readiness, stressing that the duel will hinge on how well Sweden can press and control the ball, while staying vigilant against Spain’s fluid build-up and formidable midfield presence.
Keys
For victory, the team outlined a clear plan: apply sustained, aggressive pressure from the opening whistle and avoid giving Spain time on the ball. Controlling possession will create chances and reduce risk. “We’ll try to mirror the approach used against the United States and Japan, while recognizing Spain resembles a blend of both—seeking steady possession with quick transitions, yet capable of physical play,” one adviser noted.
The squad remains versatile and prepared for all outcomes, including extra time or penalties. “We want this badly. We’re approaching each match with purpose, and now it’s Spain’s turn. Dreams don’t end here; the whole country rallies behind us, and the moment of a possible final would be life-changing for the players and supporters alike.”