Swedish duo relishing physical Denmark test

Having caught the eye in Sweden's run to the last four at the UEFA European Women's Under-19 Championship, Jennie Nordin and Malin Diaz are determined not to stop there.

Centre-back Nordin's rock-solid performances have been pivotal for a side that have conceded just once thus far. The daughter of Krister Nordin, who won Swedish and Danish titles with AIK Solna and Brøndby IF, respectively, the 19-year-old spoke to UEFA.com ahead of Wednesday's semi-final with Denmark. Sat besides her was international and AIK Fotboll team-mate Malin Diaz, a midfielder coach Calle Barrling says "gives us something a bit different."

UEFA.com: Tell us about your first steps in the women's game?

Jennie Nordin: I started in Denmark when we were living there, because my dad played there professionally. He didn't use to coach me, as he didn't want to put me under pressure, but he did use to come and watch my games and give me a lot of support. I took to defence because I'm tall and strong, I never back down from a battle and I'm good in the air. I really enjoy tough games, like the match against Spain.

UEFA.com: Malin, are you feeling fresher after only appearing as a late sub in the 0-0 draw with La Rojita?

Malin Diaz: Yeah, I think the rest has done me good, though I wasn't particularly tired before!

UEFA.com: How are you expecting Denmark to approach Wednesday's semi-final? How fierce is the rivalry between the teams?

Nordin: I don't really know much about this Denmark side, but I hope it's going to be a pretty physical game. The rivalry's strong, of course. We're neighbouring countries and whenever you play one of your neighbours you always want to win, so we'll be trying to do just that.

UEFA.com: Coach Barrling has repeatedly praised the positive atmosphere within the squad. Does the fact there are four of you from AIK help?

Nordin: Yes, because we know one another's strengths and weaknesses and know how to play together. The two of us have been playing together for even longer, around seven years I think, but there's a really good, strong bond between the whole squad.

UEFA.com: Finally, what advice would you give to young girls looking to achieve things in the game?

Diaz: Just have fun; that's the most important thing if you want success.

Nordin: Never stop fighting for what you want, if you really want it. I think it helps to set objectives once you're a bit older, but when you're young you should just play and enjoy it.