Sweden Gears Up for Serbia Clash with Potter’s Pep Talk, but Rytting Kaneryd Set to Miss Out on Starting XI.

With one victory, one draw, and one defeat in their Group A1 campaign, which has been declining with each match, the pressure is mounting ahead of today’s (Saturday 18th) clash against Serbia, kicking off at 16:00 CEST at Strawberry Arena.

In their previous encounter in Stara Pazova six weeks ago, the teams ended in a disappointing 0-0 draw—an opportunity missed for Tony Gustavsson’s squad, particularly as Serbia had suffered a heavy 6-0 defeat at home against Italy while the Swedes were conceding a late goal to Denmark.

Denmark currently occupies the automatic qualification spot with seven points, while both Sweden and Italy sit on four points each. Sweden desperately needs a convincing win this afternoon and will also be hoping that Italy can do them a favour in Copenhagen to maintain realistic hopes of finishing at the top of the table when the final matches occur in June.

“We have to secure three points tomorrow,” stated a resolute Julia Zigiotti Olme ahead of the match in Solna. “We are incredibly eager for retribution. We felt so let down by that match (the goalless draw). We aimed for three points there, and it’s crucial we achieve that tomorrow.”

In the lead-up to the match, Gustavsson revealed that his squad were visited by Graham Potter, head coach of the men’s team, who has recent experience in guiding a Swedish side to World Cup qualification.

“We received some lovely congratulations. It was a delightful experience, and we also had the chance to cheer for them and congratulate them on securing their World Cup spot,” Gustavsson said regarding his interaction with Potter.

Potter’s presence aimed to uplift a women’s team that has been hampered by injuries this season, especially just after several seasoned players announced their retirement from international play. Among the injured, Nathalie Bjorn was also present to offer support and elevate team morale.

“She is incredibly important to the national team, and it’s wonderful to see her again,” Zigiotti Olme remarked.

Unfortunately, Bjorn will miss this international window, along with captain Kosovare Asllani, who is in recovery after knee surgery.

Additionally, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd has been struggling with a calf issue, which kept her sidelined during the Denmark match. Gustavsson remains hopeful she can participate against Serbia, although not from the start.

“It’s unlikely she will begin, given the limited training she’s had. I’d estimate she might play between 0 and 45 minutes,” he conceded.