Swedish manager praises revitalised Danish women's squad ahead of key World Cup qualifier

Similar to Sweden appointing a new coach following last summer's European Championships in Switzerland, neighbouring Denmark did the same by appointing Jakob Michelsen to succeed Andrée Jeglertz, who decided to step down.

Michelsen has introduced an innovative playing style focused on tactical adaptability, greater pace, and a contemporary aggressive mindset, which has yielded impressive results for Denmark to date, with the team yet to suffer defeat under his tenure.

This understated transformation in Denmark's tactics has caught the attention of Sweden's national team head coach Tony Gustavsson, who highlights how Michelsen has quickly enhanced the Danish side's overall play.

"I am impressed by the work he has done. They are incredibly well organized. They are confident and skilled in the low defensive game and incredibly fast in transition with Pernille Harder", Gustavsson tells Fotbollskanalen. He adds:

"They have systemized their ideas, they are clear in what they are doing, and get the best out of their best players," Gustavsson explains, emphasising that Sweden's primary task will involve neutralising Denmark's forward Pernille Harder of Bayern Munich. "We have to stop the ball from getting to her and stop her with the ball, that will be the biggest challenge", he notes.

Gustavsson is not the only one pinpointing Harder as Denmark's key figure.

"It is a tough national team to play against, and it will be like a derby. It is important to keep an eye on Pernille. She is a very skilled player and leads their team", comments Brighton and Hove Albion forward Julia Zigiotti Olme.

Sweden's previous encounter with Denmark on home turf occurred in June of last year, resulting in a 6-1 victory for the Swedes.

"We know what Denmark stands for. But you can say that they have changed their way of playing, which will be exciting to see now that they have a new coach", remarks Manchester United's Fridolina Rolfö.

The hosts enter this vital World Cup qualifier without key players Kosovare Asllani, Nathalie Björn, and especially Chelsea forward Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, sidelined by a calf problem.

The fixture is set for Gamla Ullevi in Gothenburg at 19.00 CET.