Women’s World Cup Preview – Group D

SWEDEN – 10/1

The Swedes didn’t drop a single point and only conceded a soulitary goal as they topped European Qualifying Group 4, but with only scoring 32 goals, coach Pia Sundhage bemoaned, “We seem to have a terribly difficulty in creating chances,” even after remoulding the team to put a greater emphasis on the spine of the side and to dominate possession.

Qualifying for Canada 2015, the Swede’s have made it to seven consecutive tournaments since their debut in 1991, and are ranked 5th in the world. Coach Sundhage, 55, will look to get to most from PSG’s midfielder Caroline Seger as the key to the change in tactics in Sweden’s play. As well as Seger, Nilla Fischer and Therese Sjogran are seen to provide a solid foundation for Sweden. Sundhage will also look to Lyon striker Lotta Schelin, 30, who is appearing in her third World Cup, to inspire her teammates during the tournament.

As a former Coach of the Year, Sundhage is one of the most respected figures in the women’s game and has represented her country on 146 occasions, in which she won two Olympic Gold medals. Prior to coaching Sweden she had a successful 4 years with USA, taking the American’s to the final of the Women’s World Cup in 2011.

ONE TO WATCH – LOTTA SCHELIN

The 31 year old striker was once compared to national compatriot Zlatan Ibrahimovic with her height, strength and offensive technique. Look to the 5ft 10 Swede to add to her 80 international goals.

FIXTURES

08 JUNE      21:00      NIGERIA                 Winnipeg Stadium, Winnipeg

12 JUNE       01:00      USA                          Winnipeg Stadium, Winnipeg

16 JUNE       01:00      AUSTRALIA           Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton