Young defender Sofia Reidy discusses her team's attacking mindset, the influence of their captain Alice Carlsson, and the crucial importance of their supporters - the true "12th player" - in turning things around and winning this very first edition of the new women's European competition, the UEFA Europa Cup.
How are you feeling ahead of the second leg? You lost the first match 1-0 and now you’ll be playing away in Gothenburg.
Sofia Reidy: It’s a unique situation for us. In previous rounds, we usually went into the second leg either having won the first or with a lead. But I think being in this "hunter" position is perfect for us to go on the attack. We love playing attacking football, and we’ll really have the chance to show that this Friday. Even though it’s an away game, I’m convinced we’ll have all the support we need and that we’ll feel right at home in Gothenburg.
Speaking of the fans, they put on an incredible tifo in the first leg. What can you say about that passion?
It might sound like a cliché, but they really are our 12th player. They give us so much energy, and we always feel their support. Being a goal down and knowing they’re behind us pushes us to play even better for them.
What can we expect on Friday? Do you have any surprises in store?
We’re going to build on the positives from our home game. We’ve identified a few small changes that we believe will make a big difference on the pitch. We can’t wait for the match.
This is the first edition of the Europa Cup and it’s an all-Swedish final. What does that mean to you?
It shows that Swedish football is still strong and remains one of the best leagues in the world. We know each other well since we often face off in the league, so it’s fun to meet here as well.
And what about the historic aspect of being the first to lift this trophy?
It’s really special. When you play for Hammarby, you want to win trophies, and this is an important one. Winning the very first edition would be truly exceptional.
You often play alongside Alice Carlsson in defence. What does she bring to you as the club’s long-time captain?
Off the pitch, Alice is a fantastic person. She’s our captain and makes sure everyone feels included, like a family. For new players like me, she’s perfect at passing on the Hammarby culture and what it means to play for these fans. On the field, she keeps me calm. She brings out the best in me and, honestly, in every player on the team.
The squad is very young, with an average age of 24.1 in the first leg. What’s it like playing in a team with so many young talents?
It’s really inspiring. Hammarby wants to give young players a chance, and the club proves it. You need a balance between youth and more experienced players like Alice. The coaches believe in us, and it’s a very exciting time.
You’ll face Hacken again in another final (Swedish Cup) in a few weeks. What would it mean to bring two trophies back to Stockholm by the end of May?
Our goal is definitely to win both. That would be really special, but for now, we’re just focusing on Friday’s performance before thinking further ahead.
You’ll be up against Felicia Schroder, your national teammate. How tough is she to mark?
She’s a lovely person off the pitch, but on it, she’s a really "annoying" player to face. She’s quick and unpredictable - you always have to expect the unexpected with her. She’s got great qualities, and it’s a fun challenge.
So, how do you plan to limit her speed on the counterattack?
We need to stop their counters higher up the pitch. That’s their main weapon, so we have to prevent the danger before it starts. That means reacting faster when we lose the ball, keeping possession as much as possible, and winning it back immediately after losing it.
You’ve scored a few goals this season. Do you prefer scoring or keeping a clean sheet?
That’s a tough one! I’m a defender, so maybe I prefer a clean sheet. But if I can help the team by scoring, that’s always a great feeling, especially when I get to push forward a bit.
You’re playing this second leg final in your hometown, Gothenburg. Will your family be there?
Yes, absolutely! I only got four tickets, but I think there’ll be a lot more than four people cheering me on in the stands.
Finally, what are your hopes for Hammarby by the end of the season?
Winning trophies, taking the Swedish championship, and playing attractive football. We set high standards for ourselves and truly believe we can achieve it.
Follow the second leg of the UEFA Women's Europa Cup final on Flashscore.