Kosovar Engine Aslani.
Then Madelen Janogy took on the attacking midfield role with gusto and began scoring two goals and an assist – in 13 minutes.
– It was a lot of fun and I felt good, says Januji at SVT after the 4-1 win over China.
In Kosovare Aslani’s absence, Madeleine Januji was given a chance from the start against China.
Then the flying start was enough, and after only 30 seconds Sweden found the right one.
Madeleine Janogy grabbed the ball, moved forward and served Johanna Retting-Cannerd deep. She, in turn, was very cool when she scored the main goal of the Swede.
Two minutes later it was Januji’s turn. Stina Blackstenius’ pass found its way to an unthreatening Janogy who slotted the ball into the net.
But it didn’t end there, ten minutes later she also made it 3-0.
– It’s half the incomparable game you play, says SVT expert Hannah Marklund on the broadcast.
An original role
Januji started centrally from midfield with more attacking duties, a role usually played by Kosovare Aslani.
– We can call her playing an originalist role. We really didn’t have anyone who could fill that role when Aslani wasn’t around. Marklund says Januji is now showing evidence of very good properties.
– I really like this position. You can go deep, and meet the ball. Januji says it suits me well.
Madeleine Janooji was one of the last to be kicked out of the UEFA squad led by national team captain Peter Gerhardson this summer. She has her sights set on a place in the WC squad this summer, and the effort against China may have boosted the 27-year-old’s shares.
Ilestedt’s wound
Sweden eventually won 4-1. Natalie Bjorn scored Sweden’s only goal in the second half.
But finally, there were troubling photos when Amanda Ellistite landed awkwardly after nodding her head away in a corner. Ellistite badly sprained his foot and was in great pain. She lay there for several minutes and eventually had to be helped without being able to support herself with her left foot.
Sweden will play another match this national team brings together, against Germany in Duisburg on February 21.
