Big tests lie ahead for the Estonian women’s national team as they prepare for a pair of UEFA Nations League battles—first at home against Israel, then on the road in Bulgaria. Head coach Aleksandra Ševoldajeva has named a 24-player squad for the upcoming fixtures.
However, the team will be without several key players due to injury. Lisette Tammik, Jaanika Volkov, Victoria Vihman, and Kirkeliis Lillemets are sidelined, while Getter Saar, Kristiina Tullus, Emma Treiberg, and Sandra Pärn are still on the mend. On a more positive note, rising forward Anželika Jotkina (17) joins the squad and could make her international debut.
Ševoldajeva did not hesitate to address the injury crisis. “Of course it’s disappointing—we’d always rather have a full-strength squad,” she admitted.
“But I believe we still have plenty of quality and determination in the group. Injuries open the door for others to step up, and I’m confident we’ll rise to the occasion and give it everything we’ve got.”
“We have more to give against these opponents than we showed last time,” she continued. “We want to tighten up defensively—especially in set pieces—and make sure the opposition can’t create danger. But equally important is finding those moments where we can flip the script and threaten them.”
She highlighted the need to be more aggressive in attack, particularly against Bulgaria. “That last match still stings. Aside from the final 30 minutes, we simply didn’t commit enough going forward. We’ve got to change that.” As for Israel, she emphasized the importance of fine margins: “Every detail in defense and on set pieces will count—but we’ll be watching closely for any weaknesses in their game we can exploit.”
The team will assemble in Tallinn on Monday, May 26, to begin preparations for the first clash. The home showdown against Israel kicks off at 18:00 on May 30 at Kadriorg Stadium, with gates opening an hour earlier. Tickets are available via Piletilevi platform or the Estonian Football Association’s website.
Just four days later, on June 3, Estonia will be back in action, this time away to Bulgaria.
Source: https://jalgpall.ee/koondis/7/uudised/naiste-koondis-laheb-rahvuste-liigale-vastu-24-mangijaga-koosseisus-n24723
