Linköping W vs Elfsborg W - Elitettan

Few would have predicted the narrative arc that brings Linköping W and Elfsborg W together at the home ground on September 12, 2026, and the underdog storyline only adds to the Elitettan occasion. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

A glance at the Elitettan table tells the story: Linköping W in 3rd and Elfsborg W in 2nd, with positions to defend and places to climb. Linköping W are operating at a remarkable level, their LWLWW run and a season win rate of 66.67% placing them among the Elitettan's very best. The visitors have been formidable away from home, WDWLW in their last five and a win rate of 66.67% that puts them in elite company. Where Linköping W have built their campaign on solidity, Elfsborg W have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. Meanwhile, Paige Bueckers struggled to find her rhythm, going 5-for-13 for 15 points in the loss.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Linköping W and Elfsborg W have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. It isn't clear yet that this will definitely be a winger, with Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana flexible over their attack.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. In his latest Sky Sports column, Paul Merson says he would be worried by Roberto De Zerbi's post-match comments criticising Spurs' forward players and medical staff.

Bookmakers have framed the contest with Linköping W as favourites (2.4100), the draw at 3.3000, and Elfsborg W as the outsiders (2.8200). The bookmakers' pricing points firmly towards Linköping W, whose home record and form make them the side to beat. Elfsborg W look well-equipped to take the points on the road, with a 2-3 victory well within their reach. Whatever the outcome, the Elitettan fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. A more central role appears likely given the sale of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and the anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered by Amadou Onana at the World Cup.