Before the start of the European Championship in expert groups, Sweden was only part of the expanded favorite group. But after the 4: 1 success in the last group game against record European champion Germany, the third victory in series, the Scandinavians are more than just an insider tip on the title.
This Swedish team is undoubtedly a very exciting topic for communication scientists and everyone who deals with the internal climate of a football team. Because with the “Damlandlaget” a lot is spoken. Very much. And even in rather unusual situations. This could be observed once again on Saturday evening in the group game of the 1984 against the DFB selection.
Elementary needs also according to your own goals
The Swedish players gathered twice in the initial phase of the game to the team circle and put their heads together. The special thing about it: previously the eleven had scored one goal. First the 1: 1, then the 2: 1. So there would have been more reason to be very happy instead of “chatting” extensively. But these Swedes are different. And that too does it so well.
“We try to talk to each other whenever the opportunity arises and to coordinate”, Explained attacker Stina Blackstenius to “express”. In the wild initial phase of the Germany game, there was a lot of speech, according to the 29-year-old from Arsenal FC: “We wanted to be more compact. We were not in the duels at the beginning, they had a lot of space. So we corrected the list.”
Sweden successfully changes during the game
The early chances and the rapid gap by a goal by Jule Brand led to the team of coach Peter Gerhardsson to the said “Klönschnack” in the circle – and to rethink. Because the tenor among the players was even after the equalization and the leadership of standing a little deeper overall and therefore no German counterattacks over the nimble on the outside of Klara Bühl and Brand.
No sooner said than done. Due to his tactical adjustments, Sweden gave access to the game and then presented the DFB selection of major problems with attacks. “We should take the fact that we can change games on the pitch if we have a bad start”, Captain Kosovare said Asllani.
Many experienced and a very young player
The discussion group as a secret of success? Yes and no. Because in addition to good communication, the Scandinavians also shone through very good football and closed appearance. However, when looking at the initial formation, this was not really surprising. With the exception of the only 18-year-old Smilla Holmberg, only experienced players from the “top European class” section were on the lawn. And the teenager – goal scorer to 2-1 – is already on the way to a top player.
In short: the Swedish mix is right. However, with the small addition: still. Because some kickers like the 35-year-old Asllani or Fridolina Rolfö, Jonna Andersson and Magdalena Eriksson are already on the home stretch of their career. The EM in Switzerland may be the last chance for you to finally win a title with the national team.
Red card for Wamser for coach Gerhardsson not decisive
This squad undoubtedly has the sporting substance for this. Coach Gerhardsson also underpinned this when he was asked that Germany’s coach Christian Wück was the red card against Carlotta Wamser (32nd) crucial for the bankruptcy of the DFB team. “He can say what he wants. There are different analyzes”, the 65-year-old explained.
Of course, such “things” such as references would have an impact on games, says Gerhardsson. However, it was crucial for him that his team showed a perfect reaction to the deficit. “Sometimes you need different attack and defense strategies. We knew that counterattacks in this game against such an opponent would be important. And we are good in that. We showed that today”the coach said.
“Sick” – Sweden is amazed at huge Fan support
The Swedish summer night dream in Switzerland continues. And he is so beautiful for the team because so many fans have traveled to the Alpine Republic. Gerhardsson, at least eight years in office, speaks of the “best atmosphere” since he held the post. The team can also rely on the frequently cited “twelfth man”, the trailers. A factor that should not be underestimated, especially in complicated games.
“I love our fans. They are just incredible. They give us so much energy and love”said Asllani after taking the blue-yellow bathroom in the crowd with her teammates. Because the Zurich Letzigrund was immersed in the colors of Sweden. “It is sick to see how many fans are here”explained striker Johanna Rytting Kaneryd. At that moment she was almost speechless. Which is rather the exception with the otherwise talkative Swedes …