Rachel Brown says tonight’s warm-up game against Sweden will show whether Team GB can realistically compete for Olympic medals in women’s football.
Sweden are ranked fourth in the world, finished third at the 2011 World Cup and are expected to challenge for gold in London.
Team GB beat South Africa 3-1 in their first warm-up game on Monday and, ahead of tonight’s fixture at the Riverside Stadium, England and Everton goalkeeper Brown told Standard Sport: “A good result could be massive for us because this is our first proper test as Team GB.
“It gives us a chance to show that we are a decent team ahead of the tournament. We are expecting a tough game against a team who have got good pedigree — it’s one that we are excited about.
“I’ve played them before with England and they have some excellent players. We are here to do a job and this game will make sure we are moving forward.”
While the South Africa result laid an excellent foundation for the weeks ahead, Brown knows
Team GB are unlikely to have things all their own way against Sweden this evening.
“No disrespect to South Africa but Sweden are a much stronger team,” said the 32-year-old, who has 78 caps for England. “It’s just the test we need as we look to step up our level of play. The game on Monday was great but there are definitely a lot of things that we need to improve on.
“We will have the support of a big crowd as well tonight and that will be a good preparation for us.”
Team GB kick off their Olympic campaign against New Zealand in Cardiff next Wednesday. Hope Powell’s side also face Cameroon and Brazil in Group E.
Live on BBC1, 4pm. Olympic football: July 25-August 9
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