Sweden gears up for Serbia clash via Potter's motivational address yet Rytting Kaneryd set to sit out opener

A single victory, a stalemate, and a loss in their Group A1 run that has deteriorated match by match ramps up the stakes for this afternoons (Saturday 18th) encounter against Serbia, starting at 16:00 CEST in Strawberry Arena.

The teams shared a barren stalemate in Stara Pazova just six weeks back, a squandered chance for Tony Gustavssons group, particularly as Serbia suffered a 6-0 thrashing at home to Italy whereas the Swedes let in a late goal to fall to Denmark.

Denmark hold the direct qualification spot with seven points, as Sweden and Italy linger on four apiece. The Swedes require a solid triumph today alongside an Italian upset in Copenhagen to keep alive hopes of leading the table come the concluding fixtures in June.

"We must secure three points tomorrow," declared a resolute Julia Zigiotti Olme before the Solna showdown. "We are desperately keen on payback. That previous encounter (the 0-0) left us gutted. We aimed for three points then and we must claim them tomorrow."

In his pre match media briefing, Gustavsson disclosed that his players hosted a guest from the mens side, namely head coach Graham Potter, who recently guided a Swedish squad to World Cup qualification.

"We got warm felicitations. It was enjoyable, and we seized the moment to cheer and praise them for clinching the World Cup berth," Gustavsson remarked regarding the Potter encounter.

Potter aimed to rally a womens outfit plagued by injuries this season, following the exit of several seasoned players from international service. Among the sidelined group, Nathalie Bjorn attended to provide support and lift spirits.

"She holds great significance for the national squad, and its delightful to have her back," Zigiotti Olme supplemented.

Bjorn remains absent for this break, much like skipper Kosovare Asllani, who embarks on rehabilitation post knee operation.

On the other hand, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd has battled a calf issue that ruled her out versus Denmark. Gustavsson anticipates her participation versus Serbia, though not from kick off.

"Its improbable she will feature from the outset, considering her sparse training sessions. I reckon it could range from 0 to 45 minutes," he conceded.