England captain Lia Williamson will know deeply about the speed of Sweden striker Steina Blacksteinius and the fact that she prefers to stretch the backline as they play together in arsenal.
Blackstenius is very good in running behind. The way he scored the first goal in Sweden’s 4–1 victory, he showed a real intelligence to keep a real intelligence up in Germany. It was a top -level game.
He has been accused of disappearing clearly on the spot, but he executed it completely. This would have given him a real boost.
Sweden occupied 48% against Germany, but showed that they could handle the pressure as they had weapons on counter-horses. Blacksteinius is a focal point for the team and a one that possibly allows Sweden to play more directly when they need.
England Center-Back Williamson and Jess Carter need good awareness about Blacksteinians. They need to be brought to the right position.
They need to be harassed in the box when the ball widen because Blacksteinius is actually good in the air. Sweden recorded the most open-play cross during the group stage (61) and is dangerous in those situations.
Williamson showed his defensive strength in the final of the Champions League. She came forward against the top-quality and used to pass the intercept to the pass to read her speed and game.
She is so made on the ball that she can play her way out of pressure. This is very important for how to build from behind England.
Carter complements Williamson well as he can distribute both legs and is great in using his body to block the run.
Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton has a role in helping England’s center-Peetha by reducing the space, running Blacksteinius back.
There was a lot of noise around Hampton, but its distribution has been excellent, so Sweden defense needs to be careful with it. If they push too much then she can play long balls at the top.
Teams have analyzed England and have seen methods that they can exploit them, often through those direct passes or protect them. But there is no way that England will not accept Sweden’s strength. They will be ready.
