The women will be making their Olympic debut in the very first event of the Games on Wednesday when they face New Zealand in Cardiff.

This fixture offered reasons for optimism, as they held their own against Sweden, one of the strongest sides in the women's games, albeit one not expected to challenge for gold.

Britain got off to a good start as Hope Powell's side attacked with energy and no little skill, Rachel Yankey (pictured above) looking particularly threatening.

She hit the post with Britain's best chance of the match after being played in by Karen Carney.

Kelly Smith could also count herself unlucky to have narrowly missed with an audacious lob.

Most of Britain's chances came from a distance though, as some promising build up play often failed to find a crucial final pass.

Swedish midfielder Sofia Jakobsson vies with Great Britain defender Casey Stoney

Sweden finished third for a reason at the World Cup last year, and showed their class as Sofia Jakobsson and Caroline Seger caused Powell's defence problems.

Karen Bardsley was forced to make an intelligent save from Jakobsson as Thomas Dennerby's side threatened, whilst Seger almost scored when her goalbound header was cleared by Ifeoma Dieke, one of two Scots in the British line up.

Seger should have clinched it late on too when she missed a gilt edged chance from six yards out.

Swedish midfielder Sofia Jakobsson is denied by Great Britain goalkeeper Karen Bardsley

Powell will be reasonably optimistic of at least being competitive though after her team's performance today.

They face New Zealand, Brazil and Cameroon in their Olympic group, and should be good enough to come through and make a challenge for a last four place.

Sweden will be optimistic of coming through a group that involves Canada and South Africa, though they also face the world champions Japan.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
July 2012: I'm enjoying life with Team GB women's squad, says Scottish star
June 2012: Little and Dieke defy Scottish FA to represent Team GB at Olympics
May 2012: Exclusive - London 2012 will put women's football on the map, insists Briton Kelly Smith
April 2012: Bring on Brazil, declares buoyant British women's football coach Powell
April 2012: Team GB footballers face tough London 2012 test following group draws