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Pre-match | Irene Paredes: “Sweden will demand the very best from us — we’ll have to be at our absolute best”

The captain of the Spanish national team spoke to the media ahead of the first leg of the UEFA Women’s Nations League semi-finals.
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Thu, 23/10/2025 - 22:28

Spain return to the final stages of an international tournament — this time, the semi-finals of the UEFA Women’s Nations League. The reigning champions arrive hungry to reach another final, with two crucial matches ahead against Sweden, currently ranked third in the FIFA standings.

Ahead of such an important clash, team captain Irene Paredes faced the press at La Rosaleda.

The arrival of Sonia Bermúdez as head coach has brought a new dynamic to the squad. “It’s a new beginning — a change of coach, a new staff, and a different competition. It’s also preparation for future tournaments. On a personal level, I’m very happy to continue contributing to the team and I hope that good things lie ahead for a group that works hard every single day,” said Paredes.

When asked about the return of Jenni Hermoso and Mapi León to the national side, Paredes welcomed their comeback: “It’s true that they hadn’t been with us recently for different reasons, but both are happy to be back. Jenni has been through a difficult time, and now she can’t stop smiling because being part of the national team means a lot to her. And with Mapi, I’m glad she decided to return. They’re two players who add a lot and contribute to the team.”

The defender did not reveal details about the new tactical approach introduced by Bermúdez but highlighted the enthusiasm of the group:

“The new staff have come in with great energy and excitement. They want to do things well, just as we do.”

Regarding her captaincy, Paredes expressed her gratitude: “I’m thankful that the new coach continues to trust me. We’ll maintain the same group of captains from the Euros — we understand each other very well. I don’t see myself as the sole reference; we’re a group with different profiles that complement each other. I hope we continue doing things well together.”

On her current form, the centre-back added: “I finished last season at a good level, and I feel good now with my club minutes. That’s why I’m here — to contribute, to work hard, and to help the team in whatever way I can.”

Looking ahead to the two-legged semi-final tie, Paredes knows what awaits them: “We have two very tough games ahead against a powerful team that will demand the maximum from us. We want to play well and take things step by step. We focus only on the next objective, nothing beyond that. It’s a match of the highest level — we’ll have to be at our absolute best to cause them problems and prevent them from doing the same to us because they’re a very strong side.”

Listen again to Irene Paredes’ words ahead of Spain vs Sweden.

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