June 18, (THEWILL)- The resolution of which country progresses out of Group E got tightened when Emil Forsberg, RB Leipzig’s left winger, became the first Swedish player to score at a Euro competition since a 2012 Seb Larsson goal, to give the Blågult victory over a tough and well-organised Slovakian side and a great opportunity to progress to the next round.
The match began with Sweden making the initial attempts at breaking the deadlock. Coach Janne Andersson decided to stick with the same players that drew impressively against one of the early favourites, Spain, in the first game and Sebastian Larsson almost rewarded him for it early.
Slovakia also played their successful hand that worked effectively in their first group clash against the Polish formation where they picked their first three points. Just like that match, they sat back, soaked up the pressure and moved forward with intent.
A better chance for Sweden came from a free-kick opportunity just outside the Slovakia box. Larsson whipped an inviting kick into the danger area, which was well read and met by Mikael Lustig but he failed to keep his header down.
As time ticked away and Slovakia became more committed in moving numbers forward gradually, chances opened for them to score the opener. A dangerous incursion into the area by Marek Hamšík was checked by centre-back Marcus Danielson to keep the goalless score into the break.
After the interval, a determined Swedish side pushed for a winner. It resulted in a much more busy game for Slovakian goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka, whose sensational reflexes kept Ludwig Augustinsson’s glanced effort and Alexander Isak’s drive from distance out of the net.
Yet, for all Dúbravka’s hard work, Slovakia was undone by a rash challenge from the keeper on Robin Quaison in the box. Forsberg took the penalty and struck the ball beyond the reach of the keeper, who guessed the right direction but the speed and placement made sure to give Sweden the victory.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
