After a difficult start to the group stage, today’s meeting with Croatia was a key match to still have a chance to progress to the quarter-finals. Then Sweden showed a completely different game and defeated the Croatians 38-27 after a magnificent period just after the break.
– We found our way back to what made us good in recent years. We really do it together today, says Albin Lagergren, who was one of the key players in the “must-match”.
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But initially it looked heavy. Croatia set a high tempo and Dominik Kuzmanovic was responsible for several sharp saves. The lead was up to four balls before Sweden woke up.
“Incredibly proud”
The second half was a long Swedish display and Andreas Palicka delivered goals as well as sharp saves. When Lucas Pellas was also rock-solid from seven meters (nine goals in total), there was never any talk of the matter.
Sweden eventually won the match 38-27 and thus has a continued chance to advance to the quarter-finals.
– As a team, we have one of our better international matches. I am incredibly happy and proud, says Andreas Palicka.
On Sunday, Japan awaits in a final group stage match. If they win there, Sweden is ready for the quarter-finals.