In Orsa two weeks ago, Ida Dahl won both Ski Classics races.

A statement of strength that was followed up with the first victory of his career in Tjejvasan last weekend, after an exciting spray duel against Magni Smedås. 

Ida Dahl has run the Vasaloppet three times and has a third place from 2021 as the top mark.

Trying to win the Vasaloppet has been a stated goal from the start of the season for 27-year-old Dahl.

- Of course, I want to receive the wreath in Mora at the goal and stand as the winner.

In order to do that, everything has to be right all day, so I hope so, says Ida Dahl to SVT Sport.

The ladies and the men start at the same time, which means that it will go quickly right away. 

- It is important to be there mentally at the start and try to get as far as possible and once at the top try to come with a good group of men.

Leading Smedås debuts

Magni Smedås tops the total in Ski Classics – five points ahead of Dahl.

Smedås makes his first full season in the long-distance world cup and won both Marcialonga and Jizerská.

Wearing the yellow leader's vest, the 27-year-old makes his first start in the Vasaloppet tomorrow. 

- It is high time for my debut and I am very excited.

I'm a little nervous because it's very far, longer than I've ridden before, says Smedås to SVT Sport. 

A total of 15,800 are registered for Sunday's Vasalopp.  

- What I'm looking forward to most is seeing everyone at the start.

That everyone starts at the same time, it will be a crazy experience.

I am very much looking forward to finally getting to tackle the Vasaloppet. 

Scorching finish "don't let it happen again"

Smedås put in a very strong effort during Tjejvasan last weekend and looked to be heading for victory when she was sprinted down by Ida Dahl.

Target photos were required to tell them apart, a stinging lesson that led to some extra detail training during the Vasa upload. 

- I'm hungry for revenge, just ask Oskar (coach) how many sprints I did yesterday with falls.

I've definitely been working out and stretching.

It must not happen again, says Smedås.