Zecira Musovic: Determined to Surpass All in Pursuit of Becoming Chelsea's No 1 Goalkeeper

Numerous valuable lessons emerged from this year's Women's World Cup, with the majority being positive ones. However, in our exclusive interview with Zecira Musovic, the Chelsea goalkeeper, we will primarily concentrate on the positive aspects. Reflecting on the tournament, Musovic expresses her belief that the goalkeeper position is becoming increasingly trendy. It has gained significant recognition through this event, establishing a sense of style and popularity.

In the months of July and August in the southern hemisphere, the international football landscape underwent a significant and permanent transformation. The spotlight shifted towards the so-called smaller nations, as underdogs excelled and new stars emerged, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.

One position that often goes unnoticed is that of the goalkeeper. However, in the highly anticipated match between Sweden and the USA, it was Musovic who stole the show. His remarkable performance earned him the distinction of making the highest number of saves (11) while maintaining a clean sheet in a World Cup finals match, solidifying his place in football history.

WSL Chelsea Special

Saturday 30th September 7:30pm

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Zecira Musovic shattered a goalkeeping record during the World Cup, making it the most impactful individual performance of any player throughout the entire tournament. However, this journalist also holds a special appreciation for Aitana Bonmati's outstanding performance in the final, despite it hindering the Lionesses' pursuit of ultimate victory.

"There is a multitude of talented female goalkeepers across the globe," expressed Musovic, a bronze medalist. "What I find gratifying is that we are finally receiving recognition, which puts the onus on goalkeepers to deliver exceptional performances.

"I am not astonished by my abilities, but I prefer to showcase them through action rather than discussing my prowess. The World Cup provided a great opportunity to demonstrate my progress, and I am eager to see where it takes me."

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Zecira Musovic was a standout performer as Sweden came third at this summer's World Cup

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Fridolina Rolf congratulates Zecira Musovic after Sweden beat the USA on penalties

At Chelsea, the battle for the top goalkeeper position is more intense than ever. The 27-year-old acknowledges that being a goalkeeper can be strange and frightening at times, but she confidently and articulately expresses herself. She engages in conversation without any false pretenses, effortlessly discussing her aspirations for the approaching season.

"In the realm of goalkeepers, we form a tight-knit community within the team. I find great value in the healthy competition we have, and I truly believe that there is always something to learn from every goalkeeper I encounter, including my colleagues."

The internal perception differs from the outside image, as each session presents a fresh chance to showcase one's abilities. I dedicate significant effort to perfecting my approach, a commitment noticeable since my arrival at Chelsea.

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"It's only one spot, if you don't secure that spot, you'll either find yourself on the bench or even in the stands. It's an intense situation. However, I thrive on these intense moments - without a competition or challenge, things become mundane."

The psychology of a goalkeeper is intriguing and unparalleled, or as Musovic describes it, "extreme." With three first-team goalkeepers, all of whom have a valid claim for the number one position, the WSL champions face a captivating culture of competition at Chelsea. Ann-Katrin Berger and Hannah Hampton, who joined from Aston Villa in the summer, undoubtedly share the same aspiration as Musovic to rise above the rest. So, what is the nature of this competitive environment at Chelsea?

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Zecira Musovic is thoroughly enjoying the competition among Chelsea's goalkeepers for the top position.

"I'm really fond of the Chelsea atmosphere," she adds. "I admire the coaching staff, players, and collaborating with everyone. I am full of enthusiasm and intrigue about what we can accomplish this season.

Having excellent communication with Emma Hayes and Stuart Searle, we constantly push each other to improve. It's not solely about getting playing time, but about enhancing every facet of my game. Our environment thrives on challenging one another.

I firmly believe that constant niceties do not lead to improvement. I value complete honesty, whether it's acknowledging my successes or pointing out areas where I need to improve.

Arriving on the eve of the new WSL season, Musovic is in better physical condition and higher spirits than ever before. This confidence has been sparked and reinforced by her outstanding performance in the World Cup, where she contributed just as much to Sweden as Golden Glove winner Mary Earps did for England. While Earps has a large fan base who have long supported her, this feeling of admiration is newfound for Musovic.

Reflecting on the impactful summer that could potentially affect her position in the club this season, Musovic stated, "I was in a really positive state of mind and in a great flow. I was also incredibly grateful because I was confronted with situations that I knew I could handle. I felt self-assured and had a strong belief that I could make a positive contribution to my team."

I value taking care of those around me and find joy in creating a sense of security and inclusion. It is in these moments that I feel accomplished.

Rather than being an unpredictable and daring goalkeeper, I find satisfaction in being the final barrier of defense and embracing the accountability that comes with it.

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Zecira Musovic appears completely concentrated as she prepares to take on Spain in the semi-finals of the Women's World Cup. During the 15-minute conversation held at Stamford Bridge, her maturity becomes evident. She also expresses her pride in how the football community united for a shared purpose during the summer. Spain's successes on the field were unfortunately overshadowed by the inappropriate actions of certain individuals within the Spanish Federation, who have since been replaced.

Her perspective is deeply insightful: "Mutual support among individuals surpasses borders. It revolves around shared principles that we all embrace, creating an exceptional atmosphere within women's sports – we support one another. It fosters a thriving community."

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The Spanish and the Swedish teams pose with a banner reading "#it's over, our fight is the global fight"

I consider myself someone unafraid to express their thoughts. I believe in the importance of respecting everyone's diverse perspectives. If you have something to say, don't hesitate to speak up. We have the right to reject things that don't meet our standards and place expectations on those around us. It's crucial to continue advocating for our beliefs and not remain silent. Giving everyone the opportunity to voice their opinions is crucial.

Between Musovic's captivating conversation and serious discussion is a softer side, one that enjoys making light of life's curiosities.

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Her bio on X's profile states that she is a hobby GK for @chelseafcw. Accompanied by a whimsical cartoon image of herself wearing an apron and washing dishes, it symbolizes the traditional gender roles imposed on women and emphasizes the constant need for female athletes to challenge societal norms. However, when it comes to her career, her dedication and determination are unwavering, propelling her on a relentless mission to secure the coveted No 1 position at Chelsea.

"In conclusion, she expressed our group's desire to surpass our current achievements and strive for total victory. This unspoken rule of winning everything remains ingrained within Chelsea FC."

Watch the Chelsea vs Tottenham match on the opening weekend of WSL, live on We Football on Sunday, October 1, with kick-off at 5.30pm.