Tom Hamilton
Zurich – This week saw much discussion surrounding England’s 4-0 win over Sweden in the Euro 2022 semi-finals. At Bramall Lane, Alessia Russo’s heel flick became a memorable highlight, leading to their triumph over Germany in the final at Wembley. However, the focus has now shifted to preparations for Thursday’s Euro 2025 quarterfinal in Zurich.
Captain Leah Williamson, who led the team three years ago, faced the media at the luxurious Druder Grand Hotel outside Zurich. Reflecting on the challenges ahead, she acknowledged that today’s match could be as significant as their previous victory and aspirations for future success.
The teams have competed against each other twice before, both ending in stalemates, so England is aware of the difficult task in front of them. Williamson noted that Sweden deserved recognition, particularly after their 4-1 victory over Germany last Saturday.
In contrast, Sweden has been training in a straightforward environment away from UEFA’s recommended settings, based at a minimalist fitness center in Cham, located 30km north of Zurich. While the facilities lack luxury, they offer easy access to training grounds. Natalie Bjorn has even set a playlist for their sessions. Despite certain distractions like golf simulators and conventional pool platforms, ice rinks are off-limits.
Nonetheless, the Swedish camp is not without its challenges, as assistant coach Magnus Wilkman joked about living next to a construction site: “I have a construction site in the living room, an angle grinder in the kitchen, and a crane that’s controlled from the headboard,” he said, noting that workers start each morning at five.
England is well aware of Sweden’s competitive nature. Having won a bronze medal at the 2023 Women’s World Cup—eliminating the US in the process—and boasting an unbeaten streak of 16 matches, Sweden is a formidable opponent. In Euro 2025, they have gone through their group stage undefeated, with three wins, including a decisive victory over Germany at Stadion Letzigrund.
Head coach Peter Gelhardson, now in charge for his fourth major tournament, will lead a different Swedish squad than in previous years. The current lineup includes four players under 25, compared to just two in 2023. Forward ErenWangelheim has emerged as a key player, and while Hannal und Dqvist missed the last World Cup due to injury, many experienced names remain. The squad’s average of 68 caps per player reflects their depth and expertise, with veterans like Linda Sembrant, Magdalena Eriksson, Kosovare Asllani—who now has an impressive 202 caps—Stina Blackstenius, Fridolina Rolfö, and Sofia Jakobsson contributing to their legacy. The experience helps in logistical matters, like room selections, where higher caps afford players better choices.
As these veterans approach the conclusion of their international careers, fresh talent like Hammerby’s 18-year-old right-back Smira Holmberg also makes a mark, praised by Johanna Leitz Canelid for her bravery in games.
Sweden’s style is characterized by physicality and a quick ball movement, leading the Euro tournament in crosses. They relish isolating fullbacks in one-on-one situations, an approach bolstered by players like Chelsea’s Litting Canelid, who studies English player Lauren James in training. However, Gerhardson must decide whether to utilize Rolf, who missed the opener, or go with the fit Angeldal, after injury in warm-up matches against Denmark and Poland.
Arsenal forward Black Stenius is expected to spearhead the attack. Williamson, familiar with her from club training, remarked, “Stina is an incredibly strong footballer. She’s very smart in her runs and has proven herself over the years.”
In defense, Bjorn and Eriksson are critical players, especially following their absence in the first two matches due to a scoring issue with Jennifer Faulk (the first-choice goalkeeper, Zecira Musovic, announced her pregnancy in February).
England is preparing for physical confrontations. Williamson remarked, “It’s one of their biggest threats, and they excel at it.” She emphasized the importance of halting crosses and acknowledged their disciplined athleticism, highlighting the competitive edge shared by both nations.
Ella Tone focused on Sweden’s quick transitions, stating, “We saw them play recently, and they excel at counter-attacks.”
England’s lineup is significantly different since their past encounters with Sweden, having lost several beloved and successful players like Jill Scott, Ellen White, Fran Kirby, Rachel Daly, and Mary Earps. However, discussions around Sweden’s strengths remain essential, especially given their stealthy rise as a rival.
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Kelly: “Everyone is prepared for their moment.”
Chloe Kelly shares insights ahead of England’s quarterfinal against Sweden in the Women’s European Championships.
Williamson highlighted Sweden’s impressive tournament history, noting, “They consistently perform well in competitive settings. They have a highly disciplined and organized approach, which makes them formidable.”
Despite being less talked about compared to other favorites, Sweden’s track record speaks volumes, as Ritting Canelid pointed out, “You can never discount Sweden in a tournament. We have a history of strong performances.” She also acknowledged their recent success against Germany, suggesting Sweden may possess a new level of danger moving forward.
Aslani hinted that this could be her last tournament, and though others might feel the same, many are not viewing this as a “last dance.” The allure of international play keeps many engaged, reflecting on their storied careers.
Support from Swedish fans has been overwhelming, with team ticket allocations selling out rapidly. Coach Gerhardsson expressed gratitude for the unexpected level of backing: “We didn’t anticipate such strong support,” said Litting Canelid. “It’s a reassuring sign for our team.”
With a passionate yellow wall of support awaiting England, the Lionesses are set to face significant pressure. The quarterfinal clash is steeped in rich subplots and history.
In tournament settings, managers are seldom certain about when their final match will occur. In a stark contrast, Gerhardsson exudes optimism and purpose as he leads the team forward. Reflecting on past games, he hopes that the best memories are yet to unfold, stating, “They scored four goals against us before; that’s history now. Facing England is a fresh start, and we’re eager to craft a different narrative.”
Fan Take: This upcoming match not only signifies an important milestone in the Euro 2025 tournament but could also reshape the legacy of both teams. For fans, witnessing the clash between two historic rivals adds an exhilarating layer to the competition, underscoring the growing excitement around women’s soccer.
