In London, Arsenal’s difficult opening to the Women’s Super League has been followed by an injury concern on international duty, with Swedish defender Smilla Holmberg sidelined from training ahead of Sweden’s World Cup qualifying play-off.
Arsenal, featuring Spain internationals Ona Batlle, Mariona Caldentey and Misa Rodríguez, sit 10th in the WSL after taking five points from their first five matches. Sunday’s 4-2 defeat to leaders Manchester City extended a run that has brought only one league win, against Brighton, alongside two draws.
Holmberg misses Sweden training
- Holmberg hurt her foot during Sweden training on Tuesday after twisting it.
- She did not train with the rest of the Swedish squad on Wednesday and instead remained at the team hotel for treatment and rehabilitation.
- Assistant coach Niclas Egnell said the initial indications did not suggest a serious problem, although Sweden will monitor her progress.
- The Arsenal player is unavailable for Friday’s World Cup qualifying play-off against Lithuania.
“Smilla twisted her foot in yesterday’s session,” Egnell explained. “She is at the hotel receiving rehabilitation and treatment. We will see how she develops.”
Route towards Brazil 2027
Sweden must negotiate the play-offs to reach the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. Their tie with Lithuania continues with the return match on Tuesday.
If Sweden overcome Lithuania across the two legs, they will meet either Scotland or the Czech Republic for a place at the tournament.
