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Preview: Sweden is a bit of a dark horse coming into the tournament. Are they an
elite team capable of beating the best, or just one of the many good squads
present in the competition? Coach Lars Lagerback and his men impressed
with a strong campaign in 2002, besting
England
and
Argentina
in group play, and
this year the Swedes look particularly menacing. Henrik Larsson and
Juventus striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic are the stars up front, while Arsenal
midfielder Freddie Ljungberg showed blazing speed in the Champion's League final
against Barcelona earlier this year.
Unlike the traditional Swedish side known for a physical, defensive style,
this year's squad is likely to show plenty of offensive talent and mindset.
There is even some concern that the defense could be stretched thin, especially
if there are three midfielders pushing forward. Howeve,r if the Swedes are
able to capitalize on their offensive firepower, and get back in sufficient
numbers on defense they could upset even the biggest favorites in the tournament
Result: Despite absence of dominant play from Ibrahimovic, Sweden
showed that they can play with the best of them, especially in their 2-2 draw against
England.
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