Can Sweden do it again? Sweden made a name for itself as a giant killer during its run to the World Cup. Despite being placed in a group with France and the Netherlands, they made it into the playoff and then qualified from there after holding Italy scoreless over the span of 180 minutes. That left both the Dutch and the Italians out of the World Cup, stunning fans in both countries. A win over Germany here would be their greatest feat yet, as it would likely knock the defending champions out of the World Cup in the Group Stage.
The most anticipated sporting event in the world comes around once every four years, so don’t miss any of the 2018 World Cup. This match will take place at Fisht Olympic Stadium in Sochi at 2 p.m. ET on Saturday, June 23, 2018. Catch every moment of the match live on FOX.
World Cup Group Stage Betting Odds at BookMaker.eu
Germany -243
Sweden +737
Draw +377
Over/Under 2.5
Last Match
Germany were hefty favorites entering their opener against Mexico. The Germans had crushed El Tri with their ‘B’ team a year beforehand in Russia, and they may have taken them too lightly as a result. Their outside backs were constantly pressing too far forward on the attack, and that left them very susceptible to counters. Mexico made the most of those opportunities, harassing Manuel Neuer from the outset before eventually finding the game’s lone goal.
It was an incredibly frustrating showing if you’re a fan of Germany. The Germans controlled the game, doubling Mexico up in terms of shots, shots on goal, and possession. However, all of that was for not, as Germany only had a handful of quality chances and looked shockingly inept at times.
The Swedish team is much happier with its performance. Sweden did not have much trouble with South Korea, even though they didn’t score until midway through the second half. They had much better opportunities than their opponents, and this game easily could have been 2-0 or 3-0. The lone goal for Sweden came through the use of VAR, as an initial no call of a foul in the box was overturned and the Swedes were awarded a just penalty that they cashed in on.
Player to Watch
Robin Olsen is going to be tested much more often than he was in the opener. Sweden’s goalkeeper doesn’t have much experience on the international stage, with just 19 caps to his name, but he came up big during qualifying.
Those matches will be in the back of Olsen’s mind heading into this game. Olsen is not used to facing dynamic attacks, as he has only played in Sweden and Denmark as a professional. Germany have a much more balanced and nuanced offense, and they will test him often.
Key Unit
Keep an eye on how Germany’s back line plays in this one. Wing backs Joshua Kimmich and Marvin Plattenhardt played too far forward against Mexico, and they left their center backs out to dry on the counter. Germany head coach Joachim Low is unlikely to deploy them in that way again, and they should be much more reserved this time around.
If they do decide to push a bit too far, Sweden can punish them. This isn’t a team known for its offensive chops, but they have been very effective at biding their time before countering over the past year.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
It would be pretty incredible to see Germany lose, but I just don’t see it happening. Only once have they failed to make it out of the Group Stage, and that was all the way back in 1938. There is too much talent on this team to make such an early exit.
World Cup Group Stage Odds: Germany 2, Sweden 1
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