Emil Forsberg penalty gives Sweden slender win over stubborn Slovakia

18-Jun-2021 15:00:18 | Guardian

An intriguing tactical battle, a slow-burning minor classic, an enthralling game of subtly shifting patterns … ah, who are we kidding? This was dreadful, the worst game of the tournament so far by some margin. But in the end, Sweden will not be bothered by that. Against opponents devoid of intent or quality, they very slightly increased the pressure in the second half and were rewarded with a penalty and a winner from Emil Forsberg.

Four points may be enough already to secure Sweden’s passage to the last 16, but for Slovakia there must be a sense of an opportunity squandered. They will probably now need at least a draw against Spain if they are to make it through – and for that they have only themselves to blame.