Williamson ready to put Arsenal friendship aside for Blackstenius and Sweden test
Briefly

Leah Williamson acknowledges the power and intelligence of teammate Stina Blackstenius as they prepare for the Euro 2025 quarter-final match between England and Sweden. Their friendship complicates competition on the pitch. Williamson emphasizes the challenge in separating their personal bond from professional rivalry during the game. She highlights Sweden's teamwork and discipline, which makes them difficult to face. Williamson's focus is on staying present and enjoying the tournament alongside her teammates while respecting the threat posed by the Swedish team.
Leah Williamson described Stina Blackstenius as an incredibly powerful footballer and praised her intelligence with runs, making her hard to play against. Williamson noted her experience and success at Arsenal, adding that Blackstenius's role in the team's performance cannot be understated. The dynamic between the two is complex, as they must balance their friendship with the competitive nature of the tournament. Williamson emphasized the importance of focusing on the match ahead, recognizing the challenge posed by a disciplined Swedish team.
Williamson spoke about the differences between playing against Blackstenius in training and in a competitive match. She acknowledged the challenge of separating their friendship on the pitch, stating, "It's tough to remove all of that to just go at it." She emphasized her familiarity with Blackstenius, suggesting that it’s time to concentrate on the team rather than their individual connection.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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