Sweden were being touted as ‘tough opposition’ prior to their match against Spain in Seville, and Janne Andersson’s side certainly delivered on that promise.
Despite having far less of the ball, they managed to hold firm and almost nicked a goal themselves at the end of the first half. They set-up in a rigid 4-4-2 system and although they have an ageing squad, they are likely to be hugely competitive throughout this tournament.
At the other end of the field, hotshot Alexander Isak is complimented by the endeavour and experience of 34-year old Marcus Berg and the pair are likely to cause the Slovakian defence plenty of problems.
Slovakia were written off ahead of their opener against Poland and although they produced an xG of just 0.42, they managed to take advantage of Paolo Sousa’s side second-half implosion. Their victory feels like it could be a one off, and they may lack the attacking quality to find a way past this tough Swedish back-line.
The World Cup 2018 quarter-finalists should be able to collect three points here.
