The reigning world champion has historically been a difficult opponent for Sweden, at least until two years ago when the Americans were defeated 3-0 in Olympic football. Striker Stina Blackstenius scored two of the goals.
– We got the match exactly where we wanted and it was incredibly fun to play. And I got the feeling that everyone felt exactly the same, says Stina Blackstenius to TV4 Nyheterna about the win against the USA two years ago.
But on Monday it’s win or lose, and Sweden has never beaten the USA in the playoffs.
– The USA is a very fast-paced team with a lot of power and speed in their top players, so it’s important not to put them in play and make sure that their defensive game is not allowed to win the ball so high, and that we stop their counterattacks early on, says Magnus Wikman , assistant national team captain.
The setback for Sweden
With only days left until the big meeting with the USA came the setback for the Swedish national team. Team captain Caroline Seger will not be able to start the round of 16 against the USA due to a feeling in her calf. An injury that she has been dragged with for a long time. But despite the injury, she may be ready to jump in.
– It is clear that it is not optimal when I have a small feeling, says Caroline Seger in an interview with The soccer channel.
– I do everything to be able to be there on Sunday, she continues.
The match will be played at 20:00 at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium in Australia.