There are reasons why Sweden are ranked second in the world, and first among European teams. If some had not been apparent during their underwhelming start to Euro 2022, they dispatched Portugal clinically, five goals securing top spot in Group C and what looks an easier route deep into the tournament. They took the pragmatic route to progress. Set-pieces are a traditional strength of theirs and an area where Portugal have been found horribly lacking. The Swedes had not struck from dead-ball situations in their first two games. They had four within an hour, two from corners, to decide the game. Their manager, Peter Gerhardsson, had been frank in saying they could play better. A 5-0 win represented a sizeable step in the right direction.
In seeing off Portugal, Sweden got the better of the Netherlands to avoid France. It means they win Group C and their reward, rather than a date with the impressive French, is a meeting with the runners-up in Group D in Leigh on Friday. They will be the favourites to reach the semi-finals. As it is, they maintained their immaculate record at European Championships. They have reached at least the quarter-finals in each of the 11 they have played in and their progress was rarely in doubt.
