The big stars were benched. Instead, two teenagers and a trio of 22-year-olds excelled.
It looks bright for the national team – despite double losses against Spain.
– We sowed a seed for the future, says confederation captain Tony Gustavsson.
At the turn of February–March next year, the qualifiers for the World Cup in Brazil 2027 begin.
It is, among other things, with a view to that that Tony Gustavsson wanted to air some of the younger players in Tuesday night’s match against Spain.
Instead of established names such as Fridolina Rolfö, Stina Blackstenius and Filippa Angeldahl, he sent in, among others, Felicia Schröder, 18, Smilla Holmberg, 19, and national team debutant Elma Junttila Nelhage, 22, from the start against world number one Spain.
– The players who stepped down from the starting eleven had an average of 94 international matches and an average age of 30 years. Those who came in had an average of two international matches and an average age of 20, sums up Tony Gustavsson.
– And we got some interesting answers.
“Fearless style of play”
Now Spain had a 4-0 victory to go on from the first match. But the young replacements took over, before the veterans were replaced in the second half.
– I think that when they look back at these matches, they will feel that they have learned an awful lot about what is required, says Tony Gustavsson.
The union captain pays tribute to, among others, Elma Junttila Nelhage’s debut in the middle lock and Hammarby talent Smilla Holmberg, who stepped in as right back and ran and ran and ran.
– Look at Smilla’s power and totally fearless playing style. I love her mentality. It was quite impressive, he says.
Smilla Holmberg was also named player of the match by the supporters.
– It is clear that you must have respect when you meet the world’s best. But for my part, I like it, to be challenged and face the very best. It motivates me, says the 19-year-old.
“Old Lady”
Another one who was impressed by the young guard was Kosovare Asllani – who was praised before the match because she passed 200 international matches this summer.
– They showed that they wanted to be involved and are here to stay, says the 36-year-old.
With the rejuvenation of the team, her own leadership role also grows, notes the midfield veteran. As if keeping track of the slightly older teammates wasn’t enough.
– My God, it will be non-stop, 24/7, jokes Asllani.
– They are a bit more free souls if you say so, doing Tiktok and stuff like that. And when you lie in bed like an old lady, you hear the music pounding from the next room. But they are fun.
After the loss against Spain, a battle for third place in the Nations League now awaits – a double meeting against France at the turn of November-December.
