How Sweden reached the 2018 World Cup quarter-finals; team stats, key players, tactics

July 4, 2018 By Ali M.

Topics: Emil Forsberg, Sweden, England, FIFA World Cup

After beating Switzerland 1-0, the Scandinavian nation will now face England for a spot in the semi-final.

Sweden was grouped with the likes of Germany and Mexico in the World Cup. Nonetheless, they came in first and booked a ticket to the knockout stage despite a last-minute defeat to die Mannschaft in their second game.

Then came the victory over Switzerland which secured progression into the quarter-final. Next up they face England for a spot in the semis, which will be a mega achievement for the Zlatan-less nation. Here's everything you need to know about their campaign so far.

Sweden at the 2018 World Cup

Games: 4

Wins: 3

Goals scored: 6

Goals conceded: 2

Top scorer: Andreas Granqvist (2 goals)

Scores: Sweden 1-0 South Korea, Germany 2-1 Sweden, Mexico 3-0 Sweden, Sweden 1-0 Switzerland

Key stats

1994 - Sweden in the World Cup in the 21st century:

With Zlatan Ibrahimovic - eliminated in the last 16 in 2002 & 2006

Without Zlatan Ibrahimovic - qualified for the quarter finals for the 1st time since 1994

Unleashed?#WorldCup pic.twitter.com/K4qML50POE
— OptaJean (@OptaJean) July 3, 2018

2 - Sweden have won back-to-back World Cup matches for the first time since 1958, when they won the quarter-final and semi-final on their way to the final as host nation that year. Rising. #SWESUI #SWE #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/tAWajEqBDE
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 3, 2018

The European nation has recorded as many clean sheets in Russia (3) as they have had in 24 games in this competition prior to that.

Formation

Sweden deploys a 4-2-2 formation. While there is no standout superstar like Zlatan Ibrahimovic in their squad, they defend and attack as a team. As a result, they rely on counter-attacks and less on build-up plays, as seen from their inferior possession against Switzerland in the round of 16.

Key players

Emil Forsberg – since Sweden relies on counter-attacks a lot, quick transitions are required. Here is where Forsberg is key, with his speed and vision proving instrumental for the Scandinavians.

Andreas Granqvist – since Blågult likes to soak up the pressure, defensive solidity is always important. This is where Granqvist comes in. He may be their top scorer, but it's his focus and determination at the back that is key.