EXCLUSIVE: ‘A Chance Lost’ for Djurgården and Hammarby in the Stockholm Derby

In a captivating Allsvenskan showdown where both teams experienced spells of control and scoring chances, it’s perhaps understandable that players from both sides regarded the 1-1 stalemate as a missed chance to claim all three points against their city rivals.

The match was opened brightly by Djurgården, with their striker Kristian Lien finding the net in the ninth minute, marking his third goal of the season. However, Hammarby responded tenaciously, with Nahir Besara levelling the score shortly after the hour mark, ensuring Djurgården’s quest for their first derby win in nine attempts remained elusive.

Can you recount your goal, which capped off a strong start for Djurgården?

“Absolutely, we came out firing on all cylinders and created numerous chances. The goal was fantastic, with Hampus (Finndell) executing a clever backheel, and I was able to finish it off well. It’s all about anticipating where the ball will go, and I noticed Hampus wasn’t going to take the shot himself, so I positioned myself to finish the attack. It was a brilliant move.”

You found the net against Kalmar previously, and again today; are you feeling prepared to maintain a scoring streak?

“I strive to score in every match! Each game is different, particularly when facing teams that defend deeply. Today, with a more open game, it suits both me and the team, and I aim to keep scoring consistently.”

After your goal, Hammarby rallied back into the match. Do you feel this was a missed opportunity against a strong opponent?

“That’s definitely the sentiment we’re left with. We started the game exceptionally well, but felt that we let our grip slip as it unfolded. Was it a lost opportunity? Perhaps, because we expected more from this match.”

How does it feel to play in such a familiar venue while being the away team, especially with the crowd against you in a derby?

“It feels slightly different, but it’s still our stadium too, and we’re accustomed to the pitch and its surroundings. We only have one section filled with our supporters, so it’s a unique experience, yet the most significant factor is our knowledge of the pitch.”

You fell behind early and faced some pressure, but for much of the game, you were on top. Do you see this result as a missed chance for a win?

“Yes, I do. We didn’t begin well, but after the first 20 minutes, we played our game, and the second half was quite solid for us with a goal scored. It’s tough; while a point is a point, we definitely aimed for all three.”

What caused the sluggish start?

“I’m not sure! We’ve faced some slow starts this season, so it’s something we need to analyse and improve. We need to enter matches calmer and more composed to play our style from the outset.”

You’ve had big wins against Mjällby and Örgryte, but also faced disappointing results. How can you achieve the consistency needed for a title challenge?

“We must replicate the performance from our first game against Mjällby because we were excellent then. We need to maintain our style of play in upcoming matches. Having more players in the box with quality in the final third is crucial. Even having scored eight goals in that match, I don’t think we created enough chances, and that’s the area we need to improve.”

For Djurgården’s full-back Piotr Johansson, Hammarby’s lack of creativity was a positive, enabling him to relish the derby atmosphere during what he described as a relatively straightforward day in light of the circumstances.

Though you began the match strongly, what caused the drop in intensity as the game progressed?

“We did start really well. A strong opening that produces a goal against a top team can make it challenging to maintain that level of intensity, and we naturally eased off a bit. It wasn’t intentional, but we felt secure defensively. Hammarby had more possession after our explosive start, yet ultimately they didn’t create many clear opportunities, making it a fairly calm game for us.”

Hammarby boasts significant attacking prowess, with players like Nahir Besara, Paulos Abraham, and Montader Madjed. How do you manage their attacking threats from your position?

“They tend to play a possession-based style, which makes it easier for defenders like me. The worst scenarios are when you find yourself constantly turning and racing back towards your own goal, but they predominantly focused their play elsewhere today, leaving me with a relatively easy shift defensively!”

The derby atmosphere is intense. How does it feel to participate in such a match? Does it inspire you, perhaps aiding your strong start?

“Absolutely! These are the matches that motivate us as footballers, especially with the energy that our home crowd brings – particularly on derby day. It adds so much to the experience. I thrive in such environments and always aim to play my best football during these key moments.”

Many consider Hammarby to be title contenders, and you’ve now matched them on the pitch. What does this signify for your team and your potential this season?

“A draw against a quality opponent is encouraging, but we were after three points! Nonetheless, we take this result positively. Before this match, we had two excellent performances against Malmö and Elfsborg that didn’t yield any points, so we’ll take this point and move forward. Our squad is strong, and I believe we can accomplish great things this season. Next week, we’re up against Göteborg, and we’re eager to go on a winning run. Ultimately, I think a 1-1 result was fair, and there’s nothing more to elaborate on.”