Tony Gustavsson, coach of the Swedish women’s national team, expressed his admiration for the strides made by Denmark under the guidance of new head coach Jakob Michelsen, who succeeded Andrée Jeglertz.
Similar to Sweden’s decision to make a coaching change following the European Championships in Switzerland last summer, their Scandinavian rivals Denmark opted for a shift as Jakob Michelsen took over for Jeglertz after he stepped down.
Michelsen has introduced a fresh approach characterised by tactical versatility, increased intensity, and a more contemporary, aggressive style, which has resulted in Denmark remaining unbeaten under his leadership.
The transformation in Denmark’s strategy has not gone unnoticed by Swedish national team coach Tony Gustavsson, who acknowledged that Michelsen has significantly advanced the Danish game in a short span.
“I’m truly impressed with what he’s accomplished. They’re exceptionally well-organised, confident, and adept defensively while transitioning quickly with Pernille Harder,” Gustavsson told Fotbollskanalen. He added:
“They’ve systematised their concepts clearly, ensuring they maximise the potential of their standout players. Our primary goal is to prevent Danish striker Pernille Harder from Bayern Munich from influencing the game. We need to stop the ball getting to her and contain her when she has it; that will be our biggest challenge,” he stressed.
Gustavsson is not alone in recognising Harder as Denmark’s key player.
“They are a tough national team to contend with, and it feels like a derby. We must keep a close watch on Pernille, as she’s incredibly talented and leads their squad,” commented Julia Zigiotti Olme, forward for Brighton & Hove Albion.
The previous encounter between Sweden and Denmark on Swedish soil occurred last June, where the Danes suffered a heavy defeat, losing 6-1.
“We’re well aware of what Denmark brings to the table. However, it’s evident they’ve altered their playing style, which should make for an exciting match with their new coach,” remarked Fridolina Rolfö from Manchester United.
The home team will face a crucial World Cup qualifier without key players Kosovare Asllani, Nathalie Björn, and notably, Chelsea striker Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, who is currently sidelined with a calf injury.
The match is scheduled for 19:00 CET at Gamla Ullevi in Gothenburg.
Compiled by SportArena.au
Fanpage: SportArena.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
