Laia Aleixandri: “We want to secure our place in the final”

In the press room of Gothenburg’s Gamla Ullevi Stadium, on the eve of the UEFA Women’s Nations League semi-final second leg (7:00 p.m., Teledeporte), Laia Aleixandri appeared before the media in the official pre-match press conference.

The FC Barcelona defender reflected—just 24 hours away from potentially reaching Spain’s second tournament final in four months—on the importance of tomorrow’s match.

Since the last Sweden–Spain encounter two years ago, much has changed. That day marked Laia’s return to the national team, a moment she recalled fondly: “It was my comeback, in this very stadium and against the same opponent. We’ve grown a lot as a team and as a national side—in results and in every sense. It’s nice to look back and smile at the work we’ve done, and especially to come here now aiming to seal our place in the final. Tomorrow’s stage couldn’t be better—it’s the kind of challenge this team dreams of.”

To secure that place, Spain will face a typically resilient opponent: “Sweden will stick to their identity—they’re very intense, they like to bring the game into one-on-one battles. They’re a tough team to overcome and will come out with great intensity from the very first minute.”

The Santa Coloma de Gramenet native also acknowledged she is going through a positive personal moment: “Being captain isn’t something I want to talk about today, but anyone would say it’s a lifelong dream. Personally and professionally, I’m very grateful to feel good, confident, and to be in this national team environment with a new staff and head coach.”

Above her individual role, Laia highlighted the team’s spirit and togetherness: “I’d emphasize the unity within this group of players. There are many options for the coach to choose from, and that unity is essential to compete and to represent our country.”

The defender also spoke about head coach Sonia Bermúdez and the atmosphere within the squad in this new chapter: “The players and staff have started this new era with ambition, enthusiasm, and open communication. Sonia knows what it’s like to be on the other side—as a professional player herself—there’s a very good feeling between us, and that’s key.”