View Full Version : Sweden's Road to South Africa 2010
http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/816/swefootballuk2.jpg
Here's Sweden's games
Latvia - Sweden 0-1
Sweden - Liechtenstein 3-1
Sweden - Spain 2-0
Iceland - Sweden 1-2
N.Ireland - Sweden 2-1 :worried:
Denmark - Sweden 0-3 (3-3 until 88th minute, Poulsen red card and a penalty to Sweden. Game abonded)
Sweden - Iceland 5-0
Sweden - Denmark 0-0
Liechtenstein - Sweden 0-3
Sweden - N.Ireland
Spain - Sweden
Sweden - Latvia
The current standings in Sweden's group F
Pld: Matches played Pts: Points
Sweden Pld:9 Pts:22
Spain Pld:10 Pts:22
Northern Ireland pld:9 Pts:16
Denmark Pld:9 Pts:14
Liechtenstein Pld:9 Pts:9
Iceland Pld:10 Pts:8
Latvia Pld:10 Pts:4
AxelFoley
05-19-2007, 04:17 AM
Hopefully we'll beat the s**t out of them ;)
Sweden's squad has now been announced and these players will be able to play against Denmark and Iceland.
Goalkeepers: Andreas Isaksson, Manchester City, Rami Shaaban, Fredrikstad.
Defenders: Petter Hansson, Heerenveen, Daniel Majstorovic, Basel, Olof Mellberg, Aston Villa, Mikael Nilsson, Panathinaikos , Max von Schlebrügge, Anderlecht, Fredrik Stenman, Bayer Leverkusen.
Midfielders/Strikers: Niclas Alexandersson, IFK Göteborg, Marcus Allbäck, FC Köpenhamn, Daniel Andersson, Malmö FF, Kennedy Bakircioglü, Ajax, Johan Elmander, Toulouse, Samuel Holmén, Elfsborg, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Inter, Tobias Linderoth, FC Köpenhamn, Fredrik Ljungberg, Arsenal, Rade Prica, Ålborg, Markus Rosenberg, Werder Bremen, Anders Svensson, Elfsborg, Christian Wilhelmsson, Roma.
Erik Edman, Stade Rennais and Kim Källström, Lyon are injuried and won't be able to play.
Denmark - Sweden 3-3 until 88th minute when Sweden earned a penalty that was never taken because of an fan that tried to KO the ref.
This give us another result WO and 3-0 to Sweden.
3 very important points. :thumb:
AxelFoley
06-04-2007, 07:43 AM
Now Iceland awaits. I think Denmark will be bummed out on wednesday and not give it their all, while a Lettland will want to get some points and play good. I think Denmark will get a tie at the most :thumb:
Yeah i think Denmark will have a big hungover after the incident in Parken but i think they will rid out the storm and get 3 points afterall.
Anything else then 3 points against Iceland would be a huge upset.
AxelFoley
06-05-2007, 12:48 PM
Yes, it would ruin the whole Denmark win, we need those 3 points. If we get those then all we need is a tie from Denmark at home and we're pretty much there in Austria/Switzerland.
Sweden crushed Iceland with 5-0.
We have one leg in the playoffs in Austria/Swiss.
AxelFoley
06-06-2007, 09:04 PM
A tie home against Denmark pretty much will seal the deal.
We can lose against both Spain and Denmark and still go through, that feels great!
ARBANITAI
06-07-2007, 02:32 PM
[QUOTE=Da Realest]
Sweden - Iceland 5-0
lmao
Swedens 5th goal vs Iceland shouldn't even be counted, allback what a looser:boo: why, thats just not fair man, when the iceland defence all stoped playing for obvious reason, they believed it was a faul, allback then "scored" wtf!
Sweden - Iceland 5-0
lmao
Swedens 5th goal vs Iceland shouldn't even be counted, allback what a looser:boo: why, thats just not fair man, when the iceland defence all stoped playing for obvious reason, they believed it was a faul, allback then "scored" wtf!
The ref hadn't blow the whistle and as far as i'am concerned you can score when the ref hasen't blown.
It's not Allbäck's fault that the icelandic defender stopped playing and passed the ball to Rosenberg.
Anyway Denmark kept playing when there was 2 swedish players "knocked out" in the danish box. You consider that more fair then the goal Sweden did against Iceland? :rolleyes:
Viking_81
06-07-2007, 02:55 PM
Sweden - Iceland 5-0
lmao
Swedens 5th goal vs Iceland shouldn't even be counted, allback what a looser:boo: why, thats just not fair man, when the iceland defence all stoped playing for obvious reason, they believed it was a faul, allback then "scored" wtf!
Rubbish
An attackers job is to score goals. The ref had not blown the whistle and it's an attackers job to always try and score. The exception being when a member of the opposing team is laying down on the pitch. The Iceland team did not stop playing for any obvious reason at all, they stopped playing for unexplainable reasons.
clzy1289
06-08-2007, 06:19 AM
anders svensson is good. he could have gotten captaincy if not for ljungberg. but well sweden is really improving. with many players emerging as one of world's best.. wilhemsson, ibrahimovic etc..
anders svensson is good. he could have gotten captaincy if not for ljungberg. but well sweden is really improving. with many players emerging as one of world's best.. wilhemsson, ibrahimovic etc..
A.Svensson has been around a while in the Swedeish NT and he has played great most of the time, remember his performance in WC 2002 when he scored an amazing freekick against Argentina. He's quick and smart and obviously Lagerbäck's first pick as the offensive power before Lyon's Kim Källström. We have a competitive team which is great.
Wilhelmsson has improved alot since he joined AC Roma this season and he has played fantasticthe latest games in the NT. He's improving alot and he has potential to be world class more regular.
Elmander is a player that is world class at the moment, he's very underrated by the majority of football fans most likely because he plays in Toulouse, France.
He had an fantastic season in france and was nominated as the best player of the year as one of 3 options. Malouda won it.
He was picked in the team of the year though.
He's played fantastic in the NT latley and leading the swedish team in scoring. Just a matter of time before we will see Elmander in a big club.
AxelFoley
06-08-2007, 12:56 PM
Sweden - Iceland 5-0
lmao
Swedens 5th goal vs Iceland shouldn't even be counted, allback what a looser:boo: why, thats just not fair man, when the iceland defence all stoped playing for obvious reason, they believed it was a faul, allback then "scored" wtf!
Not fair? I thought the rules were set for there to be a fair game, and as long as the referee does not blow the whistle, they play by the rules.
Damn it looks like i have wrote that post, please edit that Axel :lol:
After the Qualifying game against Denmark at home we are going to play against Montenegro away the 8th of september.
http://www.footytube.com/category/videos/euro-2008/page/4/
Higlights from Sweden - Denmark aka Ibra show ;)
Sweden's Squad for the EURO Qualifying matches against Liechtenstein and Northern Ireland.
GoalKeepers:
Andreas Isaksson, Manchester City
Rami Shaaban, Fredrikstad
Defenders:
Matias Concha, Bochum
Erik Edman, Rennes
Andreas Granqvist, Wigan
Petter Hansson, Rennes
Daniel Majstorovic, Basel
Olof Mellberg, Aston Villa
Mikael Nilsson, Panathinaikos
Midfielders:
Niclas Alexandersson, IFK Göteborg
Daniel Andersson, Malmö FF
Andreas Johansson, Aalborg
Kim Källström, Lyon
Sebastian Larsson, Birmingham
Tobias Linderoth, Galatasaray
Fredrik Ljungberg, West Ham
Anders Svensson, Elfsborg
Christian Wilhelmsson, Bolton
Forwards:
Johan Elmander, Toulouse
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Inter
Markus Rosenberg, Werder Bremen
Marcus Allbäck, FC Köpenhamn
Rade Prica, Aalborg
http://www.football-inside.info/wp-content/uploads/2006/11/zlatan.jpg
Ibrahimovic will not play against Liechtenstein. He's suspended. He'll stay at home and will join the team on Sunday for the preparations against Northern Ireland on Wednesday!
Rookie Sebastian Larsson in Sweden squad for qualifiers with Liechtenstein, Northern Ireland
http://www.carling.com/media/player_images/player-image-111396.jpg
STOCKHOLM, Sweden - Rookie Sebastian Larsson was called up Tuesday for Sweden's European Championship qualifiers against Liechtenstein and Northern Ireland.
Sweden coach Lars Lagerback included the Birmingham midfielder in his 23-man squad.
Inter Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is suspended for the game against Liechtenstein, while Kennedy Bakircioglu and Max von Schlebrugge will miss both matches due to injuries.
Sweden plays at Liechtenstein on Oct. 13 in Vaduz, and hosts Northern Ireland in Stockholm four days later.
Sweden and Spain lead Group F with 19 points, though Sweden has played one game less. Northern Ireland is third with 16 points, while Liechtenstein is last with four points.
Andygers
10-10-2007, 06:52 PM
Ibra getting the rest won't be so bad considering the opponent but a return for the NI game is good news for Sweden :)
Ibra getting the rest won't be so bad considering the opponent but a return for the NI game is good news for Sweden :)
Yeh no worries there really, I think it's good for him as well, he has played a lot of games recently.
I haven't forgott that lose away against NI yet, damn that was a punch below the belt. I hope we crush em on wednesday :)
Andygers
10-10-2007, 06:58 PM
Yeah well I like NI but also so a draw would be a nice result but I think sweden will win 2-0 :)
NI plays well against better teams and play like crap against lesser teams. We all saw that when they lost against Latvia and Iceland.
David Healy is allways dangerous.
Andygers
10-10-2007, 07:29 PM
Yeah NI used to be dangerous but since they changed manager they are not the same team so I would expect Sweden to take care of them.
That's true Andy.. Since they've switched manager they have struggled alot during the Qualifyiers.
Andygers
10-10-2007, 07:58 PM
So how do u think the Liechtenstein game will go, Vic????
lol i know you will say a win but how much
I think we will win with 3-0. It's enough ;)
Elmander 2, Källström 1.
Andygers
10-10-2007, 08:05 PM
Yeah 3-0 sounds reasonable and that will prob be with the players saving energy for the Wednesday
Yeah exactly. If we beat both Liechtenstein and NI and Denmark lose 1 point against Spain or Latvia then we got the tickets to Swiss/Austria in our hands.
Andygers
10-10-2007, 08:15 PM
That's good news....Sweden are always one of the better sides in International and I am really sure they will progress by finishing top of their group :thumbsup:
Thanks Andy. I've coinfidence in this team and hopefully they'll finish top of the group.
Andygers
10-10-2007, 08:27 PM
Yeah and you have every right to be confident.
Look at it Spain's form is terrible at the moment, N.Ireland have gone wandering and I don't think Denmark are good enough to get there. However I don't think you should book your tickets for the finals just yet.
I agree, It's to early with 4 games left to say that we'll qualify, even if it's 5% chance that we won't make it. We still have to perform results in the games that are left.
Sweden sense their time is now
Marcus Allbäck hopes to play against Liechtenstein-Having moved into pole position to qualify for UEFA EURO 2008™ from Group F, Sweden have to "stay focused and play professionally" in Liechtenstein on Saturday. Those were the words of coach Lars Lagerbäck, who knows any slip-up against the minnows would cause the tension to rise before the visit of fellow challengers Northern Ireland next Wednesday.
'Job to do'
Despite being held to a scoreless home draw by Denmark in September, Sweden have 19 points along with Spain at the section summit – and crucially, they have a much better goal difference and a game in hand. With the Spaniards travelling to Denmark this weekend, Sweden sense their time is now. "It's easy to say we should beat Liechtenstein, but we have a job to do," said Lagerbäck.
Minor knocks
In-form FC Internazionale Milano forward Zlatan Ibrahimović is suspended for the match in Vaduz, while Niclas Alexandersson is out because of a problem with his right foot. "After yesterday's session, Niclas and the doctors decided he should return to [IFK] Göteborg to do some rehab training instead, but hopefully he'll join up with us again on Sunday," said Lagerbäck, who expects Olof Mellberg, captain Fredrik Ljungberg and Rade Prica to overcome minor ailments in time to feature.
'Looking better'
The coach explained: "It's looking better. Mellberg's got a problem with his back which usually fixes itself after three or four days so we're playing it safe with him. Fredrik might need some injections, while Rade is feeling better today." With Ibrahimović missing, Prica is vying with Marcus Allbäck and Markus Rosenberg for a starting position alongside Johan Elmander.
Suspension worry
"The way we're playing, with two attacking players rather than a target man, I haven't started many games lately but I've accepted that," said FC København's Allbäck, scorer of 28 goals in 66 internationals. "I've started many games in the past, I am eager to play and I feel fine." Another concern for Lagerbäck is that eight of his squad go into the game a booking away from suspension. "You can't think about these things before a match, but if we can establish a comfortable lead we might choose to play it safe."
http://mediadb.kicker.de/2006/fussball/nationalspieler/l/25917.jpg
The Panathinaikos defender Mikael Nilsson is ill and won't participate tomorrow.
Sweden's starting lineup against Liechtenstein(What I think)
GK: Isaksson
LD: Edman
CD: Mellberg
CD: Hansson
RD: Concha
DM: Linderoth
LM: Ljungberg
RM: Wilhelmsson
OM: A. Svensson
F: Elmander
F: Allbäck
Subs: Shaaban, Majstorovic, Larsson, Källström, Rosenberg, Prica, Granqvist.
Sweden's starting lineup has now been confirmed and Lagerbäck will rest Mellberg and play Majstorovic instead of him.
Lineup: Andreas Isaksson - Matias Concha, Daniel Majstorovic, Petter Hansson, Erik Edman - Tobias Linderoth - Christian Wilhelmsson, Anders Svensson, Fredrik Ljungberg - Marcus Allbäck, Johan Elmander.
AxelFoley
10-13-2007, 05:00 PM
We have to win this one or it will cost!
Yeh we could end up in trouble if we tie this one and Denmark gets their 3 points tonight against Spain.
However i can't really see how we could miss this one.
Andygers
10-13-2007, 06:21 PM
good luck guys I know that you need this win so go out and do this for your country!!!!!!!
B-Town Rovers
10-13-2007, 06:53 PM
Why isn't Ibra playing?
B-Town Rovers
10-13-2007, 06:55 PM
Fredrik Ljungberg!!!! 1-0 Sweden
B-Town Rovers
10-13-2007, 06:59 PM
Christian Wilhelmsson scores!!! 2-0 Sweden
Saraj Fanático
10-13-2007, 07:04 PM
Wilhelmsson scored such a beauty.
B-Town Rovers
10-13-2007, 07:09 PM
Indeed it was
Yeah "Chippen's" goal was a real beauty :)
Why isn't Ibra playing?
He's suspended.
B-Town Rovers
10-13-2007, 07:42 PM
He's suspended.
Ah, what a shame. I love him (of course though, I'm an Inter fan :) )
FT
Lichtenstein - Sweden 0-3(Ljungberg, Wilhelmsson and A.Svensson)
The ball possesion in this game was probably 95-5 % to Sweden :D
Good work guys!
B-Town Rovers
10-13-2007, 08:31 PM
Haha, it was a one sided game....Congrats Sweden
Looking forward to the game on Wednesday against Northern Ireland. If we win that one we got our tickets 100% sure.
Any thoughts, will Sweden win against NI on Wednesday?
Andygers
10-13-2007, 09:48 PM
well done Sweden, you must be happy vic???
I think Sweden will win 3-0, good luck!!! ;)
Yeah i'm very satisfied with the way we've played under this qualifying campaign :)
I hope we beat them with a result like 3-0 but you never know when you play a tricky side like NI.
However 3 points is 3 points and if we score 1-0 in the 93rd minute I would be more than happy :D
Andygers
10-13-2007, 10:02 PM
Yeah qualification is all that counts now and 1-0 would be good enough for you guys.
Yeh exactly :)
I really hope that Ibra will score a goal on Wednesday, It's been a while now since he scored in the NT.
Sweden close in on final spot
Sweden took another significant step towards UEFA EURO 2008™ qualification as Fredrik Ljungberg, Christian Wilhelmsson and Anders Svensson all struck in a convincing 3-0 victory away to Liechtenstein.
No repeat
Lars Lagerbäck's side were pushed all the way by the minnows when the teams met in Gothenburg 13 months ago, but goals inside the opening half-hour from Ljungberg and Wilhelmsson ensured there would be no repeat in Vaduz. Johan Elmander had chances to extend the advantage but poor control let him down and it was Svensson who eventually added a third ten minutes after the restart, his long-range strike squirming past Peter Jehle.
Ljungberg opener
Victory helped Sweden keep their place atop Group F, a result that always looked likely after they dominated the opening exchanges. Daniel Majstorovic guided a header wide when well placed and only a superb block from Jehle kept out Wilhelmsson but the pressure eventually told on 19 minutes when Tobias Linderoth's intelligent pass split the home defence and the ever-alert Ljungberg was unerring with his finish.
Solo run
Nine minutes later it was 2-0 and while the first goal was the product of combination play, the second was all about Wilhelmsson. The winger advanced down the right flank before cutting inside the penalty area and beating two men before sliding the ball into the bottom corner. It capped a fine first-half performance from the visitors, who should have extended their lead further, but Elmander failed to control Ljungberg's pass when through on goal.
Frick miss
Daniel Frick almost made him pay though contrived to head wide when it seemed easier to score. The profligacy seemed contagious as Elmander was again let down by his first touch soon after, before Svensson showed how it is done to seal a 3-0 win. Another against Northern Ireland on Wednesday and Sweden will be on the verge of a place in the finals.
Standings in EURO Qualifying Group F
Sweden Pld: 9 Pts: 22
Spain Pld: 10 Pts: 22
------------------------------------
Northern Ireland Pld: 9 Pts: 16
Denmark Pld: 9 Pts: 14
Latvia Pld 9 Pts: 9
Iceland Pld: 10 Pts: 8
Liechtenstein Pld: 10 Pts: 4
Andygers
10-13-2007, 11:19 PM
That will be good reading for sweden fans.....And so will a win against N.I :)
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/4779/3447786819llrr9.jpg
Group hug after a Swedish goal
http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/5518/3447786819pppid5.jpg
Freddie Ljungberg celebrates after his 1-0
http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/7462/3447786819xv2.jpg
Wilhelmsson raises his hand in the air after his solo run which ended up in 2-0
I can't wait for this game. If we win this one we're 100% clear for the main event in Austria/Swiss next summer.
Matias Concha and Wilhelmsson was both excellent in the game against Liechtenstein and I would love to see Concha play on Wednesday as well. However Mikael Nilsson will probably be back from his fever.
Ibrahimovic will be back from his suspension :thumbsup:
Freddie Ljungberg and Mellberg are both having some troubles with injuries and might not play but I have a feeling that they will play on painkillers in form of syringe.
Sweden will be looking for revenge since their last meeting with N. Ireland. I'm gonna say a 2-0.
Both goals by Ibra, :D.
Sweden will be looking for revenge since their last meeting with N. Ireland. I'm gonna say a 2-0.
Both goals by Ibra, :D.
I hope your right, It's been a while now since Ibra scored in the NT and I would be more than happy if he scored a goal or two. We need him to score so we can put an end on his NT-goal-drought.
Press conference with Zlatan Ibrahimovic
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00244/niman15_244750g.jpg
Your thoughts on the Liechstenstein game?
- We went to Liechtenstein to win. It wasn't the best opponent but you should never underestimate a team like that. They defended with their whole team. We did it well and won the game, scored 3 goals and now we have a big chance to qualify with a win on Wednesday. I think we'll do that.
Everyone expects that you'll beat Northern Ireland, How big is the pressure?
- We've pressure on us every game. It will be exciting on Wednesday. We've lot's of respect for Northern Ireland but we're going for the win.
Looking for revenge?
- Yes, we're definitely out for revenge.
How is your status now compared to when you played in Belfast?
- I'm 100% better now. I had problems with my groins then but I'm 100% fit now. I feel a lot more better physicaly and the form is better as well.
What went wrong in Belfast?
- Everything. I tried but came nowhere. Sometimes you have games like that but it's a new game now.
Does the memories from Belfast hurt?
- Absolutely not. We want revenge and hopefully we'll get that and secure the tickets to EURO 08 in Austria/Switzerland.
How should we score on them?
- I think that they'll defend but we just have to keep pushing. A early goal will open up the game. It's not an easy game, they have to win and we have to win. It will be exciting.
Zlatan, Your reaction on the FIFA Player Award list?
- I haven't thought about it. They make the decisions and it only means that I have to work harder.
You miss any names on the list?
- There's alot of great players that are playing on a high level. A player like David Villa wasn't on the list, Totti isn't there either and he scored most goal in whole Europe. It's not much to do. Those who didn't made the list aren't sorry for that.
Is there any awards like that you would like to win?
- I want to win every award but it's not always you get it. As long as my team wins, i'm satisfied. That list is just a bonus but ofcourse a award like that wouldn't be wrong to win.
You look alert on the practises, was it hard to not play against Liechtenstein?
- Ofcourse I want to play every game but at the same time it was good that i could rest a little bit since I have been playing alot with Inter. I've just been taking it easy in 3 days now and I look forward to the game on Wednesday. I look forward to play.
Goaldrought, Will you score?
-Yes, Hopefully.
What's your thoughts about the goals against Liechtenstein?
- It was great goals. Ljungberg made a nice run behind their defenders and scored. Wilhelmsson's was a Solo goal and Svensson scored on a nice shot. All three goals were great goals.
What did you do when you were home?
- I was together with my family and took it easy. I'm doing alot with the new house in Malmö at the moment.
Sweden rarely lose at Råsunda - Why?
- We are a great team. It's not many games we've lost. If you look at the FIFA ranking and look in what position we're at now, It's completly wrong. We should be ranked higher. We have played great in the Qualifying matches.
Is it cool to play at Råsunda?
- Absolutely. It gives you extra motivation when the fans support us. It's always fun to play infront of many peoples.
In what position would you rank Sweden in the World?
- Top 10. We've qualified to all the big tourneys but haven't somehow managed to go as far as we've wanted. In last Euro we got knocked out on penalties against Holland, It's not much to do. It's small margins but sometimes your lucky and sometimes your not.
I think I'm going to have nightmares about David Healy. I haven't forgott what that lad did to us in Belfast.
2 chances and 2 goals ...... > :boom:
Hughes says NI can upset Swedes
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/graphics/gallery/football/transuptoaugust/transfers/aaronhughes.jpg
Aaron Hughes is convinced Northern Ireland still have a chance of qualifying for Euro 2008.
Successive defeats by Latvia and Iceland suggested the province's brave campaign was effectively over but fit-again Hughes begs to differ.
"We have caused upsets before, so why not again?" said the Fulham defender.
"When things are against us that is when we are at our best. There is no pressure on us, it is all on Sweden. We are still in it."
Victory will see the Swedes qualifying for next year's finals in Austria and Switzerland.
With their final two games against Denmark at home and second-placed Spain in Las Palmas, Northern Ireland face a tough run-in but Hughes, who is certain to return as captain on Wednesday, is relishing the challenge.
"We can go out and just play. We are not out of it despite what some people are saying, although we are going to have to do it the hard way.
"Maybe two victories and a draw will be good enough to see us qualify.
"Sweden know a win will guarantee them to go through. That is the carrot for them. But we want to keep ourselves in contention.
"Our success the past two or three years has been to concentrate on things we do best and stop the opposition playing."
The one constant in Northern Ireland's campaign has been the thrilling form of striker David Healy.
He took his tally to 12 in the qualifiers by scoring from the penalty spot against Iceland.
Healy bagged a brace in a memorable victory against Sweden at Windsor Park and Hughes added: "David only had a few chances in that game and he put two of them in the back of net.
"He is always a threat. We just have to get the ball to him."
Gavmundo
10-16-2007, 01:36 PM
N.Ireland do have a good weapon in Healy but at this stage I don't think NI will win it. 2-1 to Sweden.
Andygers
10-16-2007, 01:40 PM
I think I'm going to have nightmares about David Healy. I haven't forgott what that lad did to us in Belfast.
2 chances and 2 goals ...... > :boom: He has slowed down for the NT so I wouldn't worry so much now ;)
He has slowed down for the NT so I wouldn't worry so much now ;)
Hopefully your right but It's something special with Healy. Whenever he puts on the NI jersey he's a different player.
He hasen't been that vital for his clubteam Fulham. It's like he has an isolated confidence in the NT.
Andygers
10-16-2007, 02:09 PM
Yeah Healy reminds me of Kenny Miller when he played for Celtic.....He couldn't score for Celtic but he was scoring pretty regularly for Scotland
Yeh it's something magical with guys like those.
However lets put it this way. I wouldn't want to switch any of Sweden's strikers with Healy.
I just hope that Healy's magic in the NT isn't there tomorrow :D
Andygers
10-16-2007, 02:19 PM
I doubt very much that his magic alone will win the game vs you guys. Just watch out though N.Ireland will be looking to move up the pots for the WC 2010.
Yeah we have to watch out. I have huge respect for NI but I have lost a bit after their poor performances against Latvia and Iceland. The manager switch wasn't good for NI.
They have potential in the team and I wish them all the best in the future but not tomorrow :D
Andygers
10-16-2007, 02:36 PM
lol yeah well good luck anyway!!!!
Thanks alot Andy and good luck against Georgia!! ;)
Andygers
10-16-2007, 03:09 PM
Yeah I think we are gonnie need luck!!
Sweden task stirs Ibrahimović
Zlatan Ibrahimović is "really up for" Sweden's meeting with Northern Ireland on Wednesday despite a rash of injuries in Lars Lagerbäck's squad.
Determined mood
The FC Internazionale Milano striker is available following a suspension and is eager to help Sweden earn the win needed to reach UEFA EURO 2008™. Having lost 2-1 in Belfast earlier in the campaign, there is also unfinished business to resolve. "I'm really up for this and I believe everyone in the team is too. Last time around I struggled and so did the whole team, but now we're closing in on qualification and I'm sure we'll do what is required on Wednesday evening."
Pressure on
Ibrahimović remains crucial to Sweden's cause despite not having scored for the national side in two years, something he insists is of little concern. "I don't really think about it," the 26-year-old said. "As long as we win, it doesn't matter who scores the goals." However, the pressure on him at the Råsunda Stadium may be a little more intense, with Sweden – top of Group F on goal difference from Spain, and six points above third-placed Northern Ireland – struggling to adjust to a spate of injuries to first-team players.
'On medication'
Niclas Alexandersson has been ruled out with a foot injury, Olof Mellberg is doubtful with back problems and Fredrik Ljungberg took a knock against Liechtenstein and may miss out too. Midfield engine Tobias Linderoth skipped training on Tuesday as he nurses a groin complaint, yet still intends to play. "I'm on medication but I would have to be in real pain to miss a game like this," he said. Linderoth's only natural replacement, Daniel Andersson, is suspended.
Eye-catching Concha
Defender Mikael Nilsson's fitness is another question mark after he sat out Saturday's 3-0 victory in Liechtenstein because of illness, but his absence is less of a worry given how Matias Concha performed in his place. The 26-year-old from VfL Bochum 1848 earned rave reviews and may get another chance to impress against Northern Ireland, who need at least a draw to stay in contention. "It felt good and, of course, I now want to play against Northern Ireland," said Concha.
Coach calm
Lagerbäck is confident his side can finish the job against Nigel Worthington's team. "I think we will be allowed to control the flow of the game, while Northern Ireland will focus on counterattacks," he said. "They haven't got any truly world-class players in their lineup but they're a solid team who know what it's all about. We have to stay focused and convert our chances as well as defend well. If we do that, we will be successful."
Viking_81
10-17-2007, 12:18 AM
I don't think Sweden should have a huge respect for NI. Judging by all the interviews, they don't. NI have had some very weak results in their away games. Healy has been sensational in this qualifier but if Sweden should lose or draw this game, it wouldn't be because NI is great but because Sweden did a horrible job. I'm not worried and I was somewhat worried in the away game against NI.
I don't think Sweden should have a huge respect for NI. Judging by all the interviews, they don't. NI have had some very weak results in their away games. Healy has been sensational in this qualifier but if Sweden should lose or draw this game, it wouldn't be because NI is great but because Sweden did a horrible job. I'm not worried and I was somewhat worried in the away game against NI.
I wasn't worried at all when we played NI away but we all know how that went. However NI hasen't been the same team since they changed manager and we are defeintely big favorites to win this game but I have respect for NI and they deserve it too.
Anyway It was ages ago since I saw this joyfull harmony in the Swedish team. Zlatan and Elmander upfront was amazing against Denmark and if they can play like that tomorrow i can't really see an upset from the NI again.
Nigel and David aim to leave Swedes feeling sheepish
http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/9922/healypaperp257258dus0.jpg
:lol: :lol: :lol:
Northern Ireland's footballers already had plenty of incentive going into tomorrow night's crucial European Championship qualifier in Sweden.
And now they have a whole lot more thanks to a Swedish newspaper, who decided to poke fun at Nigel Worthington's team and star striker David Healy.
In yesterday's Sportbladet, a picture of our leading goalscorer was superimposed on a sheep's head with the headline "Lambs to the Slaughter ".
Healy and the rest of Worthington's team now intend to use the picture and accompanying story to spur them on in the Group F clash in Stockholm.
Indeed the manager will use it as part of his team talk before the game.
Sweden currently top the group and require a win to ensure qualification for next year's European Championship finals in Austria and Switzerland.
But this match is just as important for Northern Ireland, as our boys also need a victory to maintain their dreams of making it to Euro 2008.
Obviously the Swedes with home advantage and class players such as Freddie Ljungberg and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are odds on favourites to win, but unlike the Swedish newspaper, let's not forget that the last time the teams played, the men in green emerged triumphant.
On a famous night at Windsor Park back in March, Healy scored two stunning goals to give Northern Ireland a 2-1 victory.
Managed then by Lawrie Sanchez, that fabulous result took our wee country to the top of the Group F table.
Healy and the boys weren't exactly "Lambs to the Slaughter" that night.
And the Green and White Army, thousands of whom will be travelling to Sweden, will hope for the same scenario tomorrow night.
It would certainly be the perfect way to erase memories of the crushing defeats to Iceland and Latvia last month.
With Healy, who has of course scored winning goals against England and Spain, as well as Sweden, anything is possible.
He admitted today that he was surprised when he was handed a copy of the Swedish newspaper.
"Seeing your face pictured on a sheep is a bit strange as it's not happened to me before.
"But if that's the way they feel they are underestimating us.
"They are expecting us to lose after the last two games but you should never underestimate the underdog - especially us."
Smiling, he added: "We'll probably win this one two or 3-0 knowing our record.
"Seriously though, you can never write us off. I wouldn't be surprised if we did get a result because you can be assured we will be giving it everything.
"As for myself I can deal with the expectation on my shoulders."
Healy needs one more goal to become the leading goalscorer in European Championship qualifying history.
He is currently level with Croatian legend Davor Suker on 12.
Northern Ireland captain Aaron Hughes, who has returned to the squad after injury, is confident that if Healy gets an opportunity, he will go past Suker.
"We are always dangerous with David in the side ? just look back at the last game against Sweden. We only had two or three chances and he scored two, " said Fulham defender Hughes.
"That's the key to winning international football matches ? sometimes you only get two or three opportunities and you must stick them away.
"He is one of the big reasons why we've done so well during the past few years. He's always been a threat and long may he continue to be."
Hughes added: " They want to go out and confirm their qualification for Austria and Switzerland ? that is the carrot that is dangling in front of their eyes.
"For us, we want to be party poopers, spoil their big night and come away with the points that will help us in our quest and keep us in contention."
Ewe better believe it, Northern Ireland are going to be up for this one. Go on Nigel, go on David, ram it to them - again.
We're feeling a little sheepish about Healy now, admits Freddie
http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/8828/freddiedonkeyclp257256dig6.jpg
Norhtern Irelands response :lol: :lol: :lol:
But I'm sure there was no harm meant by that newspaper spoof, says Swedish football star
Swedish football superstar Freddie Ljungberg last night played down the international row over Northern Ireland striker David Healy's face being superimposed on the body of a sheep.
Healy was furious after one of Sweden's main newspapers, Sportbladet, put out the spoof front page item with the headline "Lambs to the Slaughter, " suggesting that Healy and his team-mates have no chance of success in tonight's Euro 2008 qualifier in Stockholm.
But West Ham midfielder Ljungberg, who models underwear for Calvin Klein, said it was all meant to be a bit of fun.
"I certainly hope David didn't take any offence as we have nothing but respect for him and Northern Ireland," said Ljungberg, who, in keeping with the "fun" element, was depicted as a donkey in yesterday's afternoon editions of the Belfast Telegraph.
"David is a really good player who has scored a lot of goals in this competition," added Ljungberg - no doubt noting the two that the Killyleagh man bagged against the Swedes at Windsor Park in a memorable victory earlier this year.
But Northern Ireland fans will travel to Sweden today more in hope than expectation.
Their team will have to pull off something of a mission impossible by defeating the Swedes in their own back yard to stand any chance of qualifying for the Euro 2008 finals next summer.
That hasn't stopped nearly 2,000 members of the fabled Green and White Army - men, women and children - descending on the expensive Scandinavian city to cheer on Healy and his team-mates.
Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph, Geoff Wilson, head of marketing and communications at the IFA, confirmed that there were almost 2,000 Northern Ireland fans going over to Stockholm for the game.
"Travelling support has become very, very popular," he said.
"We have 1,650 coming to this match, which is brilliant. We're absolutely delighted; three or four years ago we were only bringing over a couple of hundred."
Mr Wilson also revealed he believes football is no longer the preserve of groups of lads, with many women eager to accompany their other halves to matches in foreign locations.
"There is a lot of family support, with women representing the biggest growth area," he said.
"Before we would just have groups of mates, but now men bring their girlfriends and fiancees. They go for a city break, go to a game and get sucked in by the atmosphere and the camaraderie."
Gary McAllister, spokesperson for the Amalgamation of Official Northern Ireland Supporters Club, arrived in Stockholm late on Monday night.
"The mood here is optimistic," he said.
"Hopefully we'll get a good result. We didn't come here expecting to lose; we're hoping for a win."
Mr McAllister also slammed the Swedish newspaper that poked fun at Our Wee Country's footballers.
Gavmundo
10-17-2007, 12:41 PM
I think I'm going to have nightmares about David Healy. I haven't forgott what that lad did to us in Belfast.
2 chances and 2 goals ...... > :boom:
That's his Man U training ;) He was a reserve with us before moving to Preston, then to Leeds and now Fulham...
We'll make an ass out of the Swedes, insist NI fans
http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/8249/nifanswithmasks257332dzp2.jpg
(I can't miss this one tonight that's for sure, NI fans with donkey masks of Freddie Ljungberg) :lol:
Northern Ireland football fans were neither baa-shful nor sheepish as they boarded planes for Sweden today - instead proclaiming they will make the opposition look like silly asses.
Hundreds of members of the Green and White Army were making the early morning trip to catch flights to Stockholm to watch the Northern Ireland team play Sweden in the make-or- break Euro 2008 qualifier.
The supporters took with them Belfast Telegraph donkey masks of star Swedish player Freddie Ljungberg to poke fun back at the home supporters after a Swedish newspaper superimposed a picture of David Healy onto a sheep with the headline 'Lambs to the slaughter'.
Jonathan Fairly (32), from Lurgan, said he was confident of a win: " Putting his head on a sheep didn't bother me, in fact David Healy is a wolf in sheep's clothing. It will be a bit of a tough match but it will be a great atmosphere and I predict a 2-0 win for Northern Ireland."
Fellow Lurgan man Tommy Fisher (51) said: "I think the Swedish newspaper did us a favour. It will make David Healy angry and he will bring that onto the pitch. So the whole mind game will backfire."
Jim Steele (53), from Dollingstown, said it was a vital match for Sweden.
"Sweden need to win to qualify for next year but this is very important to us as well - next year's holiday depends on it," he joked.
Meanwhile, James Young (50), from First Shankill Northern Ireland Football Supporters' Club, said: "I've been travelling to games for 30 years and this is a very important match.
"I don't care about the mind games, it will all be settled on the pitch, although we might need a few bricklayers on the Northern Ireland team. "
Meanwhile, some supporters swapped the green and white for all white, dressing up as Swedish tennis legend Bjorn Borg.
David Nesbitt (35), from Lisburn, said: "We just wanted to bring a bit of a party atmosphere and we're not really too concerned about the result. We just want everybody to have a good time watching the match."
Dermott Gillespie (40), also from Lisburn, said Northern Ireland always produce a shock: "Nobody expected us to beat England and I think we are due another shock tonight. But whatever happens it will not dampen our voices supporting the team."
Teenager Lauren Kells (15), from Newtownards, who was travelling with her father Trevor, said: "It is my first international away match and I'm excited but a bit nervous, but even at this early hour it's a great atmosphere."
One of the organisers of the flights for football fans, Jim Rainey, said there has always been great support for international away games.
Sweden's Starting 11 against Northern Ireland:
Goalkeeper: Andreas Isaksson (Man City)
Defenders: Matias Concha (VfL Bochum), Olof Mellberg (Aston Villa), Petter Hansson (Rennes), Erik Edman (Rennes).
Midfielders: Christian Wilhelmsson (Bolton), Anders Svensson (IF Elfsborg), Tobias Linderoth (Galatasaray), Fredrik Ljungberg (West Ham).
Forwards: Johan Elmander (Toulouse), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Inter).
1 hour to go!!
Cmon Sweden!!!
1-0 Sweden after first 45. Mellberg scored the goal and Sweden has been controlling the game until Wilhelmsson got injuried (probably broke his foot) :( We played with 10 against 11 for 15minutes and NI took over then but created 0 chances.
Cmon Sweden. Score another one in the second half!!!
Andygers
10-17-2007, 09:30 PM
Oh damn 1-1 Lafferty gets the goal :(
Geez 1-1. All cred to NI, what a fighting spirit they showed and they were better than us in the second half. Well deserved result and a great goal by Lafferty.
We have to wait for our tickets to Austria/Swiss but however we will come back strong from this performance and we can't miss out, it's possible, there's a chance ofcourse but I can't really see that we should lose to Latvia at home.
I want to forgett this game as fast as I can.
AxelFoley
10-17-2007, 10:14 PM
Me too, typical Sweden loosing points against Northern Ireland.
Yeah man. They play very direct, destroys Swedens gamestyle and scores when they get a chance. That's just how it is.
However we need 1 point to secure the tickets to Austria/Swiss against Either Spain or Latvia.
NI needs to win against both Denmark and Spain.
I can't see that happening but it freaks me out that there's still a chance that we will miss out even if it's only 0,00001% chance.
Current Standings
Sweden Pld: 10 Pts: 23
Spain Pld: 10 Pts: 22
Northern Ireland: Pld: 10 Pts: 17
Spain vs Sweden
Sweden vs Latvia
1 point in one of those matches will do it!
Thoughts anyone??
Viking_81
10-18-2007, 12:22 AM
Current Standings
Sweden Pld: 10 Pts: 23
Spain Pld: 10 Pts: 22
Northern Ireland: Pld: 10 Pts: 17
Spain vs Sweden
Sweden vs Latvia
1 point in one of those matches will do it!
Thoughts anyone??
Well first, regarding the match. How terrible was this performance ??. IMO this was Sweden's worst performance in the EC QF 08, they played better when they lost 2-1 to NI.
They had absolutely no edge. They might've broken the EC QF record in terms of headers. They were heading the ball towards eachother all the time. It almost looked like an Allsvenskan match (Swedish league). There was nothing unfair about the result. Lastly I'll say that NI was absolutey not the better team, I might've sounded like it. I just thought Sweden was terrible.
Now to the question about the rest of the qualifier. I think Sweden will lose to Spain. 1-1 at home against NI, it's difficult to make a case for Sweden. I think we will qualify but it's not as bullet-proof as it was before. The Latvia match will be the decider. Sweden will qualify, anything else would seem completly unreal.
Viking_81
10-18-2007, 12:29 AM
I wasn't worried at all when we played NI away but we all know how that went. However NI hasen't been the same team since they changed manager and we are defeintely big favorites to win this game but I have respect for NI and they deserve it too.
Anyway It was ages ago since I saw this joyfull harmony in the Swedish team. Zlatan and Elmander upfront was amazing against Denmark and if they can play like that tomorrow i can't really see an upset from the NI again.
The reason I was worried when we played NI away was because they had beat Spain and everyone seemed to be in agreement that it was a one time thing and Sweden was so much better. When Swedish commentators and experts say something like this, it usually goes to hell.
We expect the team to be pure professionals but they probably think the same thing. It's been so many cases where Sweden has been awesome against world-class teams and then lost to teams we've should've beat. It always gets me worried. Before tonights game, I wasn't too worried because NI had some awful away results against the weaker teams.
We are poor at closing up games and that worries me alot. We had 7 players on offensive side when they tied the game(7!?!?) That's completly insane when there's 20mins left and we lead with 1-0.
If we don't manage to get 1 point from either Spain or Latvia we aren't worthy a place in the finals.
Andygers
10-18-2007, 01:45 PM
I reckon Spain will beat you guys over there but you will beat Latvia for sure!!!!
I reckon Spain will beat you guys over there but you will beat Latvia for sure!!!!
Yeah Spain will give us a hard time for sure. However we can get a point against them but with the game agianst NI on my mind I doubt it.
If we can't beat Latvia at home we have nothing to do in the finals.
Good news. Wilhelmsson injury wasn't that bad as we first thought it was. He'll be back in 2-3 weeks :thumbsup:
I can't wait until the Spain game. I'm soo excited about this one.
Sweden's squad for the qualifiers against Spain and Latvia!
Goalkeepers:
Andreas Isaksson, 26, Manchester City
Rami Shaaban, 32, Fredrikstad FK
Defenders:
Matias Concha, 27, VfL Bochum 1848
Mikael Dorsin, 26, Rosenborg
Erik Edman, 29, Stade Rennais FC
Andreas Granqvist, 22, Wigan Athletic FC
Petter Hansson, 31, Stade Rennais FC
Daniel Majstorovic, 30, FC Basel
Olof Mellberg, 30, Aston Villa FC
Mikael Nilsson, 29, Panathinaikos FC
Midfielders:
Daniel Andersson, 30, Malmö FF
Andreas Johansson, 29, Aalborg BK
Kim Källström, 25, Olympique Lyonnais
Tobias Linderoth, 28, Galatasaray SK
Fredrik Ljungberg, 30, West Ham United FC
Christian Wilhelmsson, 28, Bolton Wanderers FC
Kennedy Bakircioglü, 27, AFC Ajax
Anders Svensson, 31, IF Elfsborg
Forwards:
Marcus Allbäck, 34, FC Köpenhamn
Johan Elmander, 26, Toulouse FC
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, 26, FC Internazionale
Rade Prica, 27, Aalborg BK
Markus Rosenberg, 25, Werder Bremen
http://svt.se/content/1/c6/84/30/12/elmander_411.jpg
Elmander will most likely miss the game against Spain, he was injuried in the Uefa Cup game this week. :sad:
Spain's squad against Sweden
Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid CF), Pepe Reina (Liverpool FC).
Defenders: Pablo Álvarez (Club Atlético de Madrid), Mariano Pernía (Club Atlético de Madrid), Carles Puyol (FC Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid CF), Carlos Marchena (Valencia CF), Joan Capdevila (Villarreal CF), Raúl Albiol (Valencia CF).
Midfielders: Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal FC), Andrés Iniesta (FC Barcelona), David Silva (Valencia CF), Xavi Hernández (FC Barcelona), David Albelda (Valencia CF), Joaquín Sánchez (Valencia CF), Albert Riera (RCD Espanyol), Marcos Senna (Villarreal CF).
Forwards: David Villa (Valencia CF), Daniel Güiza (RCD Mallorca), Raúl Tamudo (RCD Espanyol).
Larsson IN Elmander OUT
http://www.carling.com/media/player_images/player-image-111396.jpg
Birmingham's midfielder Sebastian Larsson 22 will replace Johan Elmander in the Swedish squad for the qualifiers against Spain and Latvia.
This could be another funny group. Sweden just 1 point from these 2 games lol. I hope you get 6 and Denmark gets 6 from their next two which would send Sweden and Denmark to the finals and Spain out of it. :lol: This exactly the same scenerio with Group E with Croatia England and Russia.
Best of Luck
Thanks Pape, we sure need it!
I doubt that we'll win away against Spain. We have some injury problems in the squad of different reasons and it's never good. Elmander is out(!), Wilhelmsson has just come back from an injury, same with Freddie Ljungberg and Kennedy Bakircioglu.
The only light I can see for us to win is that Ibra has been amazing in the latest games. If Ibra plays well next saturday there's always a chance.
Oh crap, I just read that Linderoth might miss the game against Spain. He has troubles with his groins and won't participate with Galatasaray tomorrow against Gençlerbirligi.
Damn just great, another midfielder that has injury problems. Wohooo who's next? Källström??
:mad:
Sweden lose Linderoth and Elmander
Tobias Linderoth is suffering from a painful groin injury (©Getty Images)Midfielder Tobias Linderoth and striker Johan Elmander have been ruled out of Sweden's crucial final qualifiers against Spain and Latvia on 17 and 21 November.
Painful injury
Galatasaray AS midfield engine Linderoth, 28, is suffering from a groin injury and will not play in either game as Sweden look to earn the point needed to secure a place at UEFA EURO 2008™. "He's in pain as soon as he runs or kicks the ball, so there's no way that he can play," said coach Lars Lagerbäck.
Elmander replaced
The 26-year-old Elmander is also unavailable after picking up a thigh injury in Toulouse FC's 3-2 UEFA Cup group stage home loss to AC Sparta Praha last Thursday. "He can't play in these two games, so we've replaced him with Sebastian Larsson," said Lagerbäck. "It's a blow but we've got other strong forwards in the squad." Marcus Allbäck is now likely to partner Zlatan Ibrahimović up front.
©uefa.com
With Linderoth and Elmander out I would like to see Sweden play with this formation.
4-2-3-1
Isaksson
Nilsson-Mellberg,Hansson-Edman
Källström-Svensson
Kennedy-Ljungberg-Wilhelmsson
Ibrahimovic
Källström has amazing cross passes and would be a good option as a DM in this type of game where we could use him as a strong counterattack option with his passes.
Svensson is always good in the NT and would be a the guy together with Källström on the midfield who could stop Fabregas, Xavi, Iniesta.
Kennedy and Wilhelmsson on the flanks with some nice pace and ball controll. Quick counterattacks is the medicine for the Swedish team in this game.
I would love to see Freddie Ljungberg in a "free role" where he could give Ibra some support with his dangerous runs into the box.
Ibra upfront alone and he will do fine, he's one of the best strikers in the world at holding the ball, passes, shots, fliks yeah you name it. If Ibra has a good day we might get a good result.
I doubt that Lagerbäck will play with this formation though
Pics from Wednesday's training in Madrid
http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/6638/9af21aa1fa954e5089200eenc1.jpg
Freddie and Ibra looking tired
http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/4112/26edfd95bed542e9b2bf32fyj2.jpg
Mellberg chillin in the sun
http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/255/514a04217b114a8094b6ce7jp3.jpg
Dorsin, Majstorovic and Larsson in action
http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/3625/a64f21ebd356479ea00cebagr4.jpg
Wilhelmsson with a new haircut
http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/2774/53f29e760bca4a29b663a4bte7.jpg
Shaaban reaches for the ball
http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/3972/0e0a26ebca6c40b9b1c9517vz1.jpg
Lagerbäck and Andersson studies the training
http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/7907/05d0acd67cda40a5b382206za9.jpg
Rise and shine Ibra, Hmm a new haircut maybe? :lol:
http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/4884/a80baf8368cc4ce390519dbvb5.jpg
Isaksson in action
http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/5342/ccf8136bc0a84bdd935aa43xq8.jpg
Rosenborg's defender Dorsin looks happy
http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/8633/fbf853ec45ad4342a0b1160ok5.jpg
Werder Bremen's striker Rosenberg in action
http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/9709/fe501c1e5517460596c2230yl2.jpg
Panathinaikos defender Mikael Nilsson
http://img116.imageshack.us/img116/8058/fef0e56e172a4291818c558qg2.jpg
Sweden's best player 2007 (Goldenball) Zlatan Ibrahimovic in action
Midfielders cause Sweden concern
http://gfx.tv4.se/imagesdb/editor/fotbolls-vm_2006/3D4E3A6D-A3E1-4CE7-8682-919095E511C8.jpg
Fredrik Ljungberg may be missing for Sweden (©Getty Images)
Photos/Wallpapers »The fitness of Christian Wilhelmsson and Fredrik Ljungberg is a worry for Sweden as they look ahead to Saturday's game in Spain and potential qualification.
Close watch
With Johan Elmander, Tobias Linderoth and Niclas Alexandersson already ruled out through injury, Lars Lagerbäck has concerns over Ljungberg – the national team captain – and Wilhelmsson who are both regaining fitness after lay-offs. "We have to watch those two closely in training," he said. "There's a question mark as to whether they can play 90 minutes in a high-tempo game like the one we expect against Spain."
Uncertain lineup
The coach usually has his starting XI in mind days before a match kicks off, but admitted he has no such plan as yet. "In some positions my choice is made, but in others there are a couple of players that I might opt for to make sure that the balance is there," he said. "The injuries to Linderoth, Alexandersson and Elmander are a concern but we've got a good set of players."
Striking alternatives
Malmö FF's Daniel Andersson is tipped to replace Linderoth while Werder Bremen forward Markus Rosenberg has partnered Zlatan Ibrahimović during training in Elmander's absence. However, Lagerbäck could decide to start with veteran striker Marcus Allbäck alongside Ibrahimović. "It's about finding a balance and even though there are a number of questions marks I've got a fairly good view on my starting XI," he said.
uefa.com
Spain vs Sweden 3-0
http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/5629/19s99dragett164j471061ard9.jpg
We were totally outplayed, I predicted a loss but not this way. We had no scoring chances and we looked heavy on the midfield. One of the worst performances I've seen in years. This game just proved that we have have much more to work with.
I guess that we'll get away with a win or draw against Latvia at home but I have a strange feeling that things can turn out really bad.
Spain what a team. I consider them as the best team in Europe at the moment together with Germany. They were just fantastic. Respect Spain and thanks for a football lesson.
Sweden goes through if we get atleast one point against Latvia at home. We can even go through with a loss if Spain wins or draw against NI.
Sweden resolute ahead of final assault
http://www.urbanhonking.com/truefan/archives/ibrahimovic.jpg
Sweden will bid to complete their quest for a finals place on home soil against Latvia, after Lars Lagerbäck conceded they had lost to a "better team" in Spain at the weekend.
No disgrace
Saturday's 3-0 defeat at the Santiago Bernabéu represented Sweden's heaviest UEFA European Championship loss since a 4-1 reverse against Czechoslovakia in the 1980 qualifiers. But Lagerbäck refused to be too downhearted. A draw against Latvia on Wednesday would still be enough to take Sweden to UEFA EURO 2008™, with the coach saying: "It's in our hands and even though we didn't perform as we had wanted against Spain, we have to remember that they are probably one of the best teams in the world.
Uncharacteristic goals
"It's quite simple – we were up against a better team and we can't complain about the result," he continued. "They scored from two corners which is unnecessary and not something we are used to seeing. If I'm correct, I think we've only conceded one goal from a corner in the last ten years. A loss like this is perhaps easier to take as it was a fair result."
Latvia beckons
Sweden forward Zlatan Ibrahimović worked tirelessly for no reward in Madrid, but was happy to put the Group F defeat behind him and concentrate on Latvia. "There's a lot of talk about me not scoring, but to be honest it's not that important," said the FC Internazionale Milano striker. "We played a good side and lost against them. Now we have a good chance of securing a place in the finals on home soil in Sweden, and that's something that will spur us on."
uefa.com
Don't get down on yourself Vic. I'm sure Sweden will at least draw a point against Latvia and come ready to play next summer.
Don't get down on yourself Vic. I'm sure Sweden will at least draw a point against Latvia and come ready to play next summer.
I guess your right but I'm so scared of this game that it's ridiculous. I know that we should win the game but I just have a strange feeling that Latvia will bite us in the ass. :sad:
I will be eating nails on Wednesday for sure.
Hmmm when following Serbia its like that every game, you never know what to expect :lol:
Hmmm when following Serbia its like that every game, you never know what to expect :lol:
Yeah I have the same feeling at the moment when I'm about to watch a Swedish game. You just can't be sure about the outcome. It sucks.
Anyway Ibra will play with new shoes on Wednesday, maybe that will help? :smoking:
http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/4663/43fe9496a723457ea279868av3.jpg
Ibra will play with special designed shoes on Wednesday. Ibra organized a competion among Swedish fans that he would play with the nicest shoes in his opinion. A 13 year old won the competition and Ibra will play with them against Latvia. The shoe has Sweden's colors on them. Blue and Yellow. The Nike signs are blue and the heals are yellow. On the sides his name Zlatan.
Now will Ibra finally end his goal drought in the NT against Latvia with new shoes?
I sure hope he does. He deserves it.
ifkgötet
11-21-2007, 01:44 AM
Vic don´t worry. There is no way we couldn´t take at least one point. It would be one of the biggest upsets ever for us swedes. Well in class with the loss against the japanese in the thirtees.
"Japaner. japaner överallt!"
"Letter, letter över...förlåt.":faint2:
AxelFoley
11-21-2007, 07:01 PM
Sweden will get at least 1 point, probably 3. Zlatan will score for the first time in 2 years and no one can bad-mouth him for the next 4 years because all you'll ever hear then is "You didn't complain when he brought you to the Euro Cup X years ago!"
If we can't beat Estonia, at home, when we HAVE to, then we shouldn't be going to the Euro Cup.
I completly agree with that Axel. Damn Latvia's goal was so ***king unfair. We're dominating the game. It will be a nervous second half.
1-1
AxelFoley
11-21-2007, 08:50 PM
2-1 Källström!!!!!!!!!!
AxelFoley
11-21-2007, 09:24 PM
Euro Cup has been reached!!!!! :smoking:
Yihaaaaaaaa 5 straight Final Event!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D
ifkgötet
11-22-2007, 11:35 AM
:) Yes! Wonderful to be through. But I have to say that we haven´t played that well for rather long now. But off coarse we should try to be positive now and look forward. It seems as if both Elmander and Linderoth are two very imortant players for sweden. Hopefully we also have learned of our mistakes in the championships and can produce better results also there and not only in qualifying.:)
:) Yes! Wonderful to be through. But I have to say that we haven´t played that well for rather long now. But off coarse we should try to be positive now and look forward. It seems as if both Elmander and Linderoth are two very imortant players for sweden. Hopefully we also have learned of our mistakes in the championships and can produce better results also there and not only in qualifying.:)
Indeed we have been weak in the latest games and it frightens me that we are so poor in the defence at the moment. I mean that's a thing we've always been good at and suddently we're just running around like chickens without heads sometimes.
Linderoth and Elmander are two very important players for Sweden. We need them.
I hope that Lagerbäck can gamble next summer and put it on one card if we reaches the Quarterfinals. I don't want to see another WC 2round game like Germany or Spain away in the EC Q. I think it would be better if we disturbed them with a higher pressure and attacked instead of falling back into Isaksson all the time.
Spain and Germany are better than us, there's no doubt but I belive that we can beat them with some "jävlar anamma" ;)
I can't wait for the Euro 2008.
Lagerbäck satisfied by Sweden success
http://www.uefa.com/multimediafiles/photo/competitions/worldcup/361739_mediumsquare.jpg
Having qualified for their fifth successive major championship with a 2-1 win against Latvia that secured second place in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying Group F, Sweden's coach and players were able to reflect on a job well done.
'Did what we had to'
Needing just a point to make sure of reaching Austria and Switzerland, Lars Lagerbäck's side made the perfect start in Solna when Marcus Allbäck opened the scoring inside the first minute. Although Jurijs Laizans brought Latvia level with a deflected shot midway through the first half, the ball striking Daniel Majstorovic to leave goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson helpless, Kim Källström secured the win – and a finals place – three minutes before the hour. Lagerbäck was quietly satisfied rather than triumphal, saying: "We didn't play well today but we did what we had to and that's what counts.
'Great job'
"I'm happy for all the people in the [Swedish Football Association] and for my players, who did a great job – they're the ones to congratulate," added the Sweden coach, whose side could have been eliminated had they lost and Northern Ireland been victorious away to section winners Spain, who in the event won 1-0. "We looked shaky at times in the first half, but in the second we played with confidence. Källström's goal calmed us down and of course Spain's goal against Northern Ireland helped us as well."
'Couldn't be better'
Striker Zlatan Ibrahimović failed to score in his six qualifying appearances but believes the success of the team was the primary concern, explaining: "We did what we had to do and that's all that matters. We combined well at times, but it was far from a top performance. We got off to the best possible start. It was fantastic, it couldn't have been better. There was a lot at stake and we weren't fully concentrated. Our own sloppy play meant we lost the initiative, but in the end we were stronger than them."
uefa.com
UEFA EURO 2008™ draw seedings
Pot Team Coefficient
1 Switzerland (hosts) 1.800
1 Austria (hosts) 1.500
1 Greece (holders) 2.167
1 Netherlands 2.417
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2 Croatia 2.409
2 Italy 2.364
2 Czech Republic 2.333
2 Sweden 2.273
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3 Romania 2.250
3 Germany 2.250
3 Portugal 2.192
3 Spain 2.182
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4 Poland 2.167
4 France 2.091
4 Turkey 1.958
4 Russia 1.958
uefa.com
ifkgötet
11-28-2007, 01:53 AM
I agree with you Vic in everything you write. For me as an Ifk-supporter I would love to see Berg though getting some quality-time i the NT and show some of his qualities as an attacker. He won the game for his Groningen against Feyenoord.
Yeh man he should be on the plane to Austria/Swiss for sure.
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What tha ***k is wrong with Lagerbäck, he didn't pick Rasmus Lindgren for the game against Brazil. I can't understand why he keeps chosing that fat guy in Malmö FF, Daniel Andersson. He's not even the best player in the Swedish League on that position.
I'm confused.
http://d.yimg.com/eur.yimg.com/ng/sp/empics/20071018/14/1753535015-soccer-uefa-european-championship-2008-qualifying-group-f-sweden-v.jpg
Damnit. Our left-back Erik Edman(Wigan Athletic) substained an injury during the 3-1 defeat against Blackburn today. Reports says that he has ruptured a cruciate ligament in his knee which will be diagnosed within 24 hours and he could be gone until October. :sad:
http://umea.expressen.se/polopoly_fs/1.986377!slot100slotWide75ArticleFull/3447786819.jpg
Linderoth has done great progress with his injury and has already began to work with the ball again during Galatasaray's practises.
Great news. :thumbsup:
Injured Ljungberg To Miss Euros?
http://gfx.tv4.se/imagesdb/editor/fotbolls-vm_2006/BA2CCBD4-625C-4C9D-942E-88208862D0FD.jpg
West Ham’s Swedish midfielder Freddie Ljungberg is facing a race to be fit in time for Euro 2008.
Ljungberg, 31, was stretchered off whilst playing for West Ham in yesterdays 2-2 draw with Newcastle after a clash with Newcastle defender Steven Taylor. It was later revealed that Ljungberg had fractured a rib, an injury that rules him out for the rest of the Premier League season.
However, more worrying for Ljungberg is that it is now just under six weeks until the start of the European Championships, meaning he must now be a doubt to play in Sweden’s opener against Greece on the 10th June.
Ljungberg has already suffered an interrupted season which has seem him start just 22 league games for the Hammers, scoring twice since his move from Arsenal.
It seems that Ljungberg has fallen victim to West Ham’s notorious injury curse that has struck the London club hard this season and ensured an inconsistent season for the Hammers as they have lost so many players through injury.
Their lengthy injury list has seen long term injuries to Kieran Dyer, Julien Faubert, Scott Parker, Craig Bellamy, Dean Ashton, Anton Ferdinand and Matthew Upson amongst others and manager Alan Curbishley will be looking forward to next season when, fingers crossed, he may have a fully fit squad to choose from for the first time.
In the meantime Ljungberg, and Sweden, will be hoping for a swift recovery. Otherwise, like his English colleagues, he will be forced to watch the European Championships from the sidelines.
http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/3583/airplane654151wng9.jpg
Bye Bye. Don't come home too soon ;)
Linderoth aching for finals action
Tobias Linderoth is hoping to be more than "a 60-minute player" for Sweden at UEFA EURO 2008™ despite still feeling the pain of a hip operation in January.
Midfield linchpin
The 29-year-old has been Sweden's midfield linchpin for several seasons, but was the last player to be confirmed in Lars Lagerbäck's finals squad after having surgery in the United States to resolve a hip problem – the latest in a line of worrying injuries for the Galatasaray SK man. Surgeon Dr Marc Philippon predicted it would take eight months for Linderoth to recover, putting his UEFA EURO 2008™ place in doubt, but with Sweden's Group D opener against Greece looming he is in firm contention for a starting berth. "I'm here to compete for a spot and I'm here to play," he said.
Cameo appearances
When he was drafted back into the squad in May, Linderoth had not played a competitive game for some time but had a pre-tournament training camp to prove his fitness. He showed his importance by scoring the only goal – his second for the country – in a 1-0 friendly win against Slovenia on 26 May. He featured in the first half of that match and for 55 minutes of the subsequent 1-0 defeat by Ukraine, prompting Lagerbäck to label him "a 60-minute player". However, this is not a tag Linderoth is likely to settle for.
Pain barrier
"In the last friendly, I was perfectly fine for the time I was on the pitch," he said. "I felt fresh and felt I had the stamina for it. But I haven't played longer than that, so I don't know how I'd react to more playing time." He is eager for the chance to find out, but there is no doubt it will be a painful experience. "Of course I still feel my injury," he said after training on Thursday. "Maybe not while training, but before and afterwards. I need to spend more time warming up than six months ago."
We start off against Albania away.
Viking_81
07-14-2008, 11:22 PM
I've got tix for the Portugal game (Stockholm), I sure hope they'll hold up at home. On paper, this should be the most important match of the WC QF.
Sweden's Squad against Albania and Hungary!
Goalkeepers:
Andreas Isaksson, PSV Eindhoven
Johan Wiland, IF Elfsborg
Defenders:
Andreas Granqvist, FC Groningen
Petter Hansson, Rennes
Max von Schlebrügge, Bröndby
Daniel Majstorovic, AEK Aten
Olof Mellberg, Juventus
Mikael Nilsson, Panathinaikos
Fredrik Stoor, Fulham
Oscar Wendt, FC Köpenhamn
Midfielders/Strikers:
Daniel Andersson, Malmö FF
Marcus Berg, FC Groningen
Victor Elm, Kalmar
Samuel Holmén, Bröndby IF
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Inter
Kim Källström, Lyon
Tobias Linderoth, Galatasaray
Henrik Larsson, Helsingborg
Sebastian Larsson, Birmingham
Markus Rosenberg, Werder Bremen
Anders Svensson, Elfsborg
Christian Wilhelmsson, A l-Hilal
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