Sweden captain Zlatan Ibrahimovic is set to lead his side in Euro 2016 with their opening game against Republic of Ireland on Monday.

The 34-year-old talisman is thrilled to kick-off their UEFA Euro 2016 campaign, as he claims he is in top form heading into this top-flight competition.

Sweden was drawn in Group E, as they will face Ireland Republic on June 13 as well as other opponents Italy and Belgium.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the Swedish footballer talked about his form and his side's ability to perform well in order to survive the group stage.

"I go in with a strong season behind me. I am getting better with every year that passes. It’s all about developing and learning new things and not being satisfied. Zlatan-Ibrahimovic

"You need the hunger to be a better player. That’s when I feel I have accomplished something, when I learn new things. I demands new things and to learn and to work hard on the pitch.

"I have the greatest pressure on my shoulders, I want to take the pressure off my team-mates as much as possible. I’m used to it. I want them to enjoy it and go out and play. 

"There is no greater honour than playing a championship with your country."

The former A.C. Milan and FC Barcelona striker also added:

"It’s all about balance and being patient with your team-mates, at PSG, I made more demands, here I can’t make those demands.

"But I have good chemistry with all of the players, I work for them and they work for me.

"I take responsibility on and off the field. To become a leader is not something you choose, it’s something you grow into. 

"I’ve had this role a few years and it makes you a lot better as a player, strong mentally on and off the pitch. I'm comfortable with that.

"But you become the best by having team-mates around you to make you the best. If the collective is there then it allows for the individual. And here, with Sweden, it is all about one individual." 

Ibrahimovic is Sweden's all-time leading goalscorer with 62 goals in 113 appearances for the Blue-Yellows.

 


 

Match details, result and original broadcast info

Ireland Republic 1 - 1 Sweden

June 13, 2016 12:00pmStade de France, France

This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.

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