Getting to Know Fridolina Rolfö
Age: 29
Position: Dual-threat as Forward and Full-back
Teams: The Mighty Barcelona and Team Sweden
Alright, folks, let’s rap about Fridolina Rolfö, a woman who shines so bright, you’d think she’s got her own spotlight on the soccer field. Last June, she led Barcelona to a miraculous comeback, clawing their way back from a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2 against Wolfsburg in the Champions League finals. And let me tell you, this was her Oscar moment!
Now, if you’re keeping track at home, this marked a turning point for Rolfö. She had twice tasted defeat in the European finals, once with Barcelona and once with her previous crew at Wolfsburg. So, third time’s the charm, right?
Swiss Army Knife of Soccer
Rolfö isn’t just a one-trick pony. Nah, she’s got a whole bag of tricks. Last season, Barcelona even tossed her into a defensive role, and she crushed it. Helped them skate to a Liga F win, finishing a solid 10 points ahead of those running second-best, Real Madrid.
Facing the Goliath and Winning
When it came to a nail-biting penalty shootout against the USA, the defending world champs, during the World Cup’s Round of 16, guess who stepped up to the plate? Yep, you guessed it—Rolfö. Her kick started a series that booted one of the tourney favorites out of the competition.
Although Sweden later bowed out to Spain, the eventual champions, Rolfö still snagged a bronze medal and netted three goals throughout the tourney. Not too shabby!
Rolfo Unplugged: What’s on Her Mind
That Champions League Scorcher
“I remember everyone rallying around at halftime, knowing we could still pull off a win,” Rolfö shared. “The energy was electric, and then I found myself in the perfect position to score what would become the most pivotal goal of my career.”
Her Face-off with the USA
“The moment was overwhelming, to say the least,” Rolfö admits. “When it was Lina Hurtig’s turn to kick, I couldn’t bear to watch. I was a bundle of nerves. But when it was my turn, it felt like the universe had my back. I wanted to be the first to kick, setting the tone for my team.”
Her Unlikely Football Dream
“Growing up, the idea of becoming a professional footballer seemed outlandish, almost unattainable. I believed it was a man’s world,” Rolfö mused. “If younger me could see where I am now, she’d be gobsmacked.”
Her Idols
“Marta, the Brazilian legend, was my idol. Heck, I even named my cat after her!” Rolfö reminisced. “She revolutionized the game and gave me someone to admire, something my mom also encouraged by taking me to women’s matches.”
Praises and Accolades
Barcelona’s captain, Alexia Putellas, sings her praises: “Fridolina brings an incredible drive and a keen sense of strategy to the team. We’re fortunate to have her.”
Her teammate Lucy Bronze seconds that, especially highlighting her performance in the Champions League final: “She has showcased an incredible mentality, stepping up during the most critical game of the year.”
Fun Facts to Know and Tell
- Primarily a forward but also moonlights as a full-back for Barcelona.
- Used to work at a bank while kicking off her football career. Talk about multitasking!
- A two-time Olympic silver medalist.
- Has a soft spot for handball and is an ambassador for the European Handball Championships.
So, who’s voting for Fridolina Rolfö as the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2023? Let the fan wars begin!
Click here to cast your vote if you’re on the BBC News app.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Fridolina Rolfö
Who is Fridolina Rolfö?
Fridolina Rolfö is a 29-year-old professional footballer who plays as a forward and occasionally as a full-back. She currently plays for Barcelona and the Swedish National Team.
Why is Fridolina Rolfö a contender for BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2023?
Rolfö has had an exceptional year, marked by her performance in helping Barcelona win the Champions League and her role in the Swedish National Team’s World Cup campaign, where they won a bronze medal. She has showcased her versatility and skill, making her a strong candidate for the award.
What positions does Fridolina Rolfö play?
Rolfö is primarily a forward but has also been deployed as a full-back. Her versatility allows her to adapt to different roles on the field, contributing to both offensive and defensive plays.
What teams has Fridolina Rolfö played for?
Rolfö has played for Barcelona and the Swedish National Team. She was also a former player for Wolfsburg, another top-tier women’s football club.
What are some highlights of her career?
Some key highlights include scoring the winning goal for Barcelona in the Champions League finals against Wolfsburg, taking the first penalty kick in a crucial shootout against the USA in the World Cup, and winning a bronze medal in the same tournament.
What other activities or interests does Fridolina Rolfö have outside of football?
Outside of her football career, Rolfö has an affinity for handball. She played the sport until she was 15 and is an ambassador for the European Handball Championships. She also worked at a bank at the beginning of her career.
Who are her role models in football?
Brazilian football legend Marta serves as her main role model. Rolfö admired Marta’s unique style of play, including her speed and dribbling abilities, so much that she even named her cat after her.
What do her teammates say about her?
Barcelona’s captain, Alexia Putellas, and teammate Lucy Bronze both praise Rolfö for her incredible drive, tactical understanding, and clutch performances in critical games.
How can readers vote for Fridolina Rolfö for the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2023?
If you are using the BBC News app, there will be a link provided to cast your vote.
More about Fridolina Rolfö
- Fridolina Rolfö’s Official UEFA Profile
- BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2023: Nominees
- Barcelona Women’s Team Roster and Stats
- FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023: Highlights and Matches
- European Handball Championships: Ambassadors
- Marta: Career and Achievements
- Interview with Barcelona’s Captain, Alexia Putellas
- Lucy Bronze Talks Champions League Victory
