'Proud to see two Swedish clubs in semi-finals': Hacken's Tindell ahead of Frankfurt clash

You secured a 3-0 victory in the first leg in Germany. Is it difficult to maintain concentration for the return fixture with such a substantial advantage, particularly since you're now at home?

Tabby Tindell: "Our concentration has been superb. We realise the task is not complete. From our experiences in sports, we understand that surprises can occur. We must remember that the outcome is not yet settled. We will have to exert effort during the entire game. Playing at home with our supporters and on familiar ground is a benefit we will leverage to remain concentrated and ready."

Do you anticipate Frankfurt adopting a highly aggressive approach in the second leg? How do you manage that, particularly as captain?

"Yes, I am certain they will. Not only because they need to score, but because that matches their playing style. They are a high-calibre side, aggressive and robust. We foresee them beginning with great vigour and intense pressing. It is our responsibility to draw lessons from the initial match and identify areas for enhancement, both in tactics and skills, to avoid being surprised by their pace."

You have donned the captain's armband on multiple occasions in this tournament. Is it a position you relish, and how would you characterise your leadership approach?

"Yes, I truly relish it. As one of the more seasoned members of the squad, I possess considerable experience, so it is rewarding to apply that to steer the younger athletes and support the group as a whole. I would describe myself as a vocal leader. I communicate extensively, and my voice is frequently audible during play. That is one of my key assets: I express clearly what I desire and believe, ensuring everyone is aligned."

You appear to be the frontrunners. What would securing this inaugural trophy and being the first to raise the Europa Cup signify for you?

"It would be remarkable, naturally, as it marks the debut of this event. At BK Hacken, we foster a robust culture of success. Our aim is to deliver silverware and accolades to the club, that is our ongoing ambition. We discuss it regularly, yet on a daily basis, we avoid dwelling excessively on the prize. We focus on current sessions, on gearing up for the upcoming fixture. If we execute properly, the accolade will follow in due course."

What does the presence of two Swedish teams in the semi-finals indicate about women's football in Sweden?

"I am immensely proud. It highlights the calibre of the teams and athletes in Sweden. Swedish clubs routinely compete for Champions League berths, often navigating challenging qualifiers, but maintaining that standard in a fresh competition like the Europa Cup is truly thrilling for the nation."

Is it a benefit or drawback that your domestic league has only recently resumed, whereas the Bundesliga has been active for months?

"I view it as a benefit for us. We have contested numerous games lately. Although the league recommenced this past weekend, we have featured in the Swedish Cup, providing intense, pressured encounters. That aids our development as a unit and helps us gel. With our relatively fresh lineup, it enables all to gain playing time and achieve solid conditioning. We strive for a packed calendar from the season's outset, so I see only upsides."

Your progress has been notable, but do you feel the absence of Jennifer Falk's guidance and expertise (currently on loan at Liverpool), despite the solid showings from your emerging stars and present goalkeeper?

"Certainly. Jennifer was an outstanding guide and had spent many years at the club. Her exit was a mixed feeling. You wish well for colleagues exploring new leagues and advancing, but we do miss her direction, knowledge, and composure during matches.

"Yet that is the typical progression for a squad. It is invigorating to witness our rising stars rise to the occasion, offering more than talent and emerging as guides in their unique manner. Even post-Falk, we retain ample expertise from athletes like Aivi Luik, Stine (Sandbech), and myself. It forms an ideal blend of veterans mentoring the collective and eager youngsters equally driven for triumphs."

What sets this fresh tournament apart from the Champions League fixtures you have previously contested?

"That is an excellent query. Being a novel competition, we are still adapting. However, the prospect of competing in Europe against squads from various nations at this tier is superb. Even following our omission from the Champions League last season, it affords teams insight into diverse approaches, which will advance women's football over time. Moreover, it presents yet another chance to claim silverware, a major incentive."

Do you sense a distinct vibe in these continental encounters compared to domestic league matches?

"Yes, it generates considerable buzz. It is also splendid to encounter different supporter groups. In Frankfurt, the backing from their followers was palpable, infusing an emotional layer and altered dynamism on the field. After seasons facing the same opponents routinely, it is rejuvenating to face novel rivals and observe fans engaging with these fixtures. The visit to Frankfurt was outstanding, and I trust our crowd will extend a warm reception here."