Cold shower for Sweden.
Two games into the EC qualifiers, they are still chasing their first victory. That after a late decision from France at home at Gamla Ullevi.
“Not up to par”
On Friday, Fridolina Rolfö saved points for Sweden after a late decision against England. Today the margins were against Sweden.
– We will not get up to par, unfortunately. They are faster and more aggressive than we are and then it becomes difficult for us to play our game. We get a push but it came too late, I’m incredibly disappointed but it’s just a matter of looking ahead, says Magdalena Eriksson to Fotbollskanalen.
France got off to a flying start immediately and had a great position already in the first minute of the match. Sweden continued to be pressed and initially it was France that dominated. But Sweden worked their way back and managed to create chances offensively.
When the referee blew for half time it was still scoreless.
Yesterday 21:05
Highlights: Sweden-France
Renard sank Sweden
It would take 81 minutes before the goal was broken. And it was France who took control of the match through Wendie Renard’s 1-0 for France.
The Swedish national team chased an equalizer in the last, but never managed to get a break on France.
– It is extremely difficult, we are not satisfied with our performance and do not deserve to win tonight, says Fridolina Rolfö.
Sweden is now third in the qualifying group, one point behind France and England. The next match in the European Championship qualifiers is played on May 31, when they face Ireland, who have lost their opening two matches.
First and second qualify directly for next summer’s European Championship in Switzerland. A playoff awaits third and fourth.