Tony Gustavsson, coach of the Swedish women’s national team, has expressed his admiration for the progress Denmark has made under the guidance of new coach Jakob Michelsen, who took over from Andrée Jeglertz.
Following Sweden’s decision to change coaches after last summer’s European Championships in Switzerland, Denmark made a similar move with Jakob Michelsen stepping in to replace Jeglertz, who opted to resign.
Michelsen has introduced a fresh approach, characterised by tactical flexibility, increased intensity, and a more modern, aggressive style of play. This strategy has yielded remarkable results for Denmark, who remain unbeaten since Michelsen took charge.
The notable shift in Denmark’s style has not gone unnoticed by Gustavsson, who believes Michelsen has significantly elevated the team’s performance in a short space of time.
“I’m really impressed with what he’s accomplished. They are exceptionally organised. They display great confidence and skill defensively, and they are lightning fast in transition with players like Pernille Harder,” Gustavsson told Fotbollskanalen. He added:
“They’ve systematised their concepts, their intentions are clear, and they’re maximising the potential of their best players. Our main objective will be to neutralise Danish striker Pernille Harder from Bayern Munich. We have to ensure she doesn’t receive the ball and that we contain her when she has it; that will be our biggest challenge,” he stated.
Gustavsson isn’t the only one highlighting Harder as Denmark’s key player.
“They’re a tough national team to compete against, and it feels like a derby. Keeping an eye on Pernille is essential. She’s incredibly talented and leads their side,”
commented Julia Zigiotti Olme, a striker for Brighton & Hove Albion.
When Sweden last faced Denmark on home turf in June of last year, the Danes suffered a heavy defeat, going down 6-1.
“We know what Denmark is about. However, it’s evident that they’ve altered their playing style, which will be intriguing now under a new coach,” noted Manchester United’s Fridolina Rolfö.
As the team prepares for the vital World Cup qualifier, Sweden will be missing key players Kosovare Asllani, Nathalie Björn, and Chelsea striker Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, who is sidelined due to a calf injury.
The match is set to kick off at Gamla Ullevi in Gothenburg at 19:00 CET.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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