FIFA World Cup
World Cup 2018: Sweden vs Switzerland Preview
After convincingly defeating Mexico 3-0 in group stage, Sweden is setting up to match against Switzerland. However, this is a good opportunity for both teams and they know it. Nevertheless, both teams reached the World Cup via European playoffs.
Sweden came to the World Cup without their emblematic captain Zlatan Ibrahimovic. However, they have RB Leipzig’s Emil Forsberg and thrive under the leadership of coach Janne Andersson. While Switzerland are being led by their eagles Granit Xhaka, Stephan Lichtsteiner and Xherdan Shaqiri.
History:
Sweden was in the podium of the 1994 World Cup in the US when they finished in third place. However, Swiss have not seen the quarterfinals since 1954 when they hosted the World Cup.
Sweden and Switzerland have met in 27 occasions since their first match up in 1920. In 98 years, each side holds 10 wins and seven draws.
Last time they played the draw on a 1-1 in an international friendly.
Team Form:
The Swedish team will be without defender Sebastian Larsson, who is suspended after picking up two yellow cards during the group stage. Fortunately for them, they will be with no injuries.
For the Swiss, Swiss coach Vladimir Petkovic will be without both Stephan Lichtsteiner and Fabian Schar. They picked up a suspension after being shown yellow cards in the third and final group game against Costa Rica.
Possible Lineups:
Sweden: Robin Olsen; Mikael Lustig, Victor Lindelöf, Andreas Granqvist, Ludwig Augustinsson; Viktor Claesson, Gustav Svensson, Albin Ekdal, Emil Forsberg; Marcus Berg, Ola Toivonen
Switzerland: Yann Sommer; Michael Lang, Johan Djourou, Manuel Akanji, Ricardo Rodriguez; Valon Behrami, Granit Xhaka; Xherdan Shaqiri, Blerim Dzemaili, Steven Zuber; Josip Drmic
Prediction:
The best prediction for this match is that both teams will look to play to not lose. It is clear that we are not going to see great football. However, Sweden has an advantage over the Swiss after they have more convincing wins over Mexico and South Korea. Sweden will win over Switzerland.
Sweden 3 – 1 Switzerland
