Looking at this group before the start of the tournament, we knew that this game would be a decider. A win for Sweden will ensure they top the group. The Polish need a win at all costs, or they will be eliminated.
Euro 2020: Group E
Wednesday 23 June
Saint-Petersburg Stadium
To Win Match
Sweden 18/10
Draw 9/4
Poland 31/20
Sweden
The Swedes top Group F with four points having drawn with Spain and beaten Slovakia. It is also important to mention that Sweden have not conceded a goal in the tournament and keeping another clean sheet will ensure progression to the last 16.
Just like the World Cup in Russia three years ago, Sweden are one of the best teams defensively but still somewhat struggle upfront. They needed a late penalty to beat Slovakia last time out and that happens to be their only goal of the tournament.
A defeat would see Sweden finish third, but four points could likely be enough to take them through as one of the best third-placed teams.
Poland
Poland started the tournament with a surprise defeat to Slovakia where everyone had tipped them to win easily.
Poland pulled up their socks in the second round of games where they managed to draw 1-1 with Spain. The polish had to dig deep in that fixture and were a little bit fortunate as Gerard Moreno missed a penalty for the Spanish.
Robert Lewandowski scored his first goal of the tournament which was very important for the Poles, as a defeat would have seen them exit the competition. Lewandowski will be needed more than ever against one of the best defending teams in the competition.
Verdict: Draw 9/4
I am expecting Sweden to ‘park the bus’ like they did against Spain, sitting back and waiting patiently for the counter-attack. Poland is not so good offensively, despite having one of the best strikers in the tournament. For the brave punters, I would suggest backing Under 1.5 Goals.
