When Nina Koppang got the news that she was selected for the assembly in Karlskrona and the international matches against the Czech Republic, she was shocked.

- I did not expect that.

It's really fun.

I am incredibly grateful to get the chance, says Koppang.

It was in January this year, after Koppang had breathing difficulties during a match in the Champions League, that the blood clots were discovered.

At first it was thought that it was about covid-19, but it later turned out to be blood clots in the lungs, a condition that made it difficult to give any prognosis on when, if, and to what extent Nina Koppang would return to the handball court.

Was away for 8 months from handball

But in August she made a comeback and on Friday she was there when Sweden defeated the Czech Republic in the first of two games before the EC.

- It's been a long time since I've been gone.

I have never been away from handball for so long before.

So it has been a challenge, but at the same time I have learned a lot in the meantime and do not take handball for granted, but take advantage of every opportunity I get and appreciate handball very much.

Today, she has been declared healthy and feels that she has returned physically, but not completely mentally.

- Mentally, it will probably be a process that takes longer.

But it gets better and better as time goes on.

- The fear that it will come back is always there.

But I have received incredibly good support from psychologists and family and friends.

Three players may not accompany you to the EC

After tonight's international match against the Czech Republic, which is broadcast on SVT, three players are to be removed before the European Championship, which starts on November 4.

- It is clear that the thoughts are running, but I try not to think about it.

I see this as a fun experience and will try to learn as much as I can these days, and then we'll see how far it goes, says Koppang.

What do you hope to show against the Czech Republic?

- I'm a shooter, but can also be a breakthrough player sometimes.

I want to contribute with a lot of speed and hopefully help the team to the level I can.