Football Family Celebrates Dual Success: Almgren–Pettersson Duo Enjoy “Fantastic” Autumn
Málaga, Spain – The Almgren-Pettersson family is experiencing a remarkable autumn, marked by championship glory and a new national leadership role. Just days apart, Tom Pettersson secured a stunning SM gold with mjällby AIF, while Johanna Almgren was appointed assistant captain of the Swedish women’s national team.
Mjällby’s men claimed their first Swedish championship on October 20th, defeating IFK Göteborg 2-0, with Tom Pettersson scoring one of the goals. Four days later, Johanna Almgren began her new role with the Swedish women’s team in a Nations League semi-final against Spain.
“A fantastic time,” Johanna Almgren said,reflecting on the family’s recent achievements. ”Partly for him and for the whole of Mjällby.And I’m not surprised, because I got to follow them from the inside. And then this (national team job) came in the same vein, it’s clear that it was a good time that we’re just enjoying.”
Johanna Almgren, who earned 48 caps for Sweden and competed in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, transitioned to coaching after injuries ended her playing career in 2014. She previously served as an assistant coach for Östersund’s men’s team alongside her husband, and most recently as head coach for Kristianstad in the women’s league. She accepted the position as assistant to national team captain Tony Gustavsson this summer, calling it “a dream.”
Now, Almgren focuses on the Swedish women’s attack as they prepare to face France tonight in the Nations League bronze medal match, seeking to overturn a 1-2 deficit. A victory would secure bronze and hold significant importance for the team.
Despite the shared success, a playful rivalry exists between the couple. “Yes, now he can calm down,” Almgren joked, referring to Pettersson’s celebration of Mjällby’s SM gold. “Now I’m tired of him. He can always use it against me because I have nothing. So it’s a bit disturbing.” She playfully vowed that a bronze medal victory would give her ample chance to return the playful banter. “You, he will hear that. I can say that.”
