A Swiss lead was in the air at the end of the first half when Sweden were awarded a free kick – and did what they do best: set pieces.
Just like in the Spain match, it was Kosovare Asllani’s sensitive right foot that was behind the post and Magdalena Eriksson’s head that made it 1-0.
The first 45 otherwise left a lot to be desired, Switzerland had two really dangerous situations – one a shot into the crossbar by Hammarby player Smilla Vallotto.
– It felt anxious when Switzerland got to those positions. The Swedish goal came very timely, says SVT’s expert Daniel Nannskog.
The second dangerous situation was saved by Zecira Musovic, who got the chance again between the posts after Jennifer Falk stood last against Italy.
Rytting Kaneryd best in the offensive
In the second half, Sweden clearly created the most, while a tired Switzerland fell back.
Johanna Rytting Kaneryd was the hottest player on the pitch on her right wing and created a bunch of chances, but the precision in the finishes was lacking.
With 20 minutes left, Peter Gerhardsson replaced Madelen Janogy and Anna Anvegård (out Jakobsson and Blackstenius) with the hope of creating more offensive edge – but the match ended 1-0.
Hermoso hero of the match for Spain
The victory means that Sweden is still second in the group, three points behind Spain – who an hour before defeated Italy after a late winning goal by Jennifer Hermoso. The match was the Spanish star’s first after the so-called “scandalous kiss” that has shaken Spanish football.
Now the group stage in the Nations League turns with three more matches. The tournament is also an Olympic qualifier and Sweden must overtake Spain to keep the Olympic dream alive.