UWCL Emma Kullberg faces former club as Inter chase historic debut

UWCL Emma Kullberg prepares for a special reunion with BK Häcken as Inter step onto the UEFA Women’s Champions League stage on Tuesday, marking the Italian side’s first appearance in the competition’s league phase.

Qualifying triumph over VfL Wolfsburg

Inter secured their place among Europe’s elite after overturning a 2‑0 first‑leg deficit against VfL Wolfsburg. They won the second leg 3‑1 after extra‑time and progressed on penalties, a dramatic comeback that booked their historic debut.

The group‑stage opener will be played at the Stadio Brianteo in Monza, where Inter will host Swedish side BK Häcken. The venue and the opponent give the Italian club a vivid introduction to the UWCL.

Kullberg balances nostalgia and ambition

Defender Emma Kullberg, who featured for Häcken in 2021, described the fixture as “a special game”. “I’m really looking forward to it, I’m happy and it will be very fun to play against Häcken,” she said.

She added that she holds no secret insight into the Swedish side. “I wouldn’t say I have insights, but I know that Häcken is a really good team,” Kullberg explained, noting her recent scouting of their matches.

Stones reassures Inter: minor injury, return before Monza

Inter’s group also includes Austria Wien, OL Lyonnes, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Arsenal. Kullberg welcomed the challenge, saying the variety of opponents will test the team’s adaptability.

Inter’s qualification represents a landmark moment for the Nerazzurre, reaching the UWCL league phase for the first time. Former Brighton defender Emma expressed her excitement: “It feels very exciting. I’m very happy for this… there are a lot of good teams we’ll face, and it will be a good challenge for us.”

Kullberg brings valuable European experience from her stint with Juventus, having played in the previous season’s UWCL run that included a play‑off win over Benfica and a last‑16 clash with Wolfsburg. “I love playing the Champions League games, and I’ve always done that, so for me it’s always special,” she said.

Looking ahead, Kullberg stressed the need to focus on the immediate task. “Right now we’re focused on the next game. It’s important not to be distracted by bigger fixtures later in the campaign,” she affirmed.