Injured stars Björn and Asllani to join Sweden squad for crucial World Cup qualifiers

Sweden's national women's soccer team is calling on the experience and leadership of injured stars Nathalie Björn and Kosovare Asllani for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Coach Tony Gustavsson announced that both players, despite being unable to play, will join the squad to provide crucial support during the decisive matches.

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In the situation we are in now – when we are entering a decisive World Cup qualification – we take all the experience, all the leadership, all the enthusiasm, and all the belief in this team that we can get.

Björn, a center-back for Chelsea, is recovering from a long-term injury, while captain Kosovare Asllani suffered a severe knee injury in March. Their presence is seen as vital for a young squad that has already seen experienced defenders Magdalena Eriksson and Linda Sembrant retire. Gustavsson emphasized that in this critical phase of qualification, "we take all the experience, all the leadership, all the enthusiasm, and all the belief in this team that we can get."

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We know how much they contribute and mean to this group.

The Swedish team is vying for a direct spot in the 2027 World Cup. Their qualification path is precarious, with a potential direct ticket on the line in their upcoming match against group leaders Denmark. A loss to Denmark could see their direct qualification hopes dashed, though a playoff in the fall offers a secondary chance. The team has struggled in qualifying so far, with a goalless draw against Serbia and a loss to Denmark.

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Nathalie will be very important for us, not least in the meeting room and the locker room. And 'Kosse' will also be an important part of the preparations when she joins.

Gustavsson acknowledged the void left by the absence of key players but noted that the team found ways to compensate in the last assembly. The inclusion of Björn and Asllani, he believes, will provide "stability, mental toughness, and a winning mentality." He highlighted that many young players have expressed how much they value the presence of these experienced figures, underscoring their importance beyond the field of play.

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When such big personalities are not in the room, there is a certain void in any group.