The Sweden XI that should start against Slovakia at Euro 2020
By Max Cooper
Sweden were up against it in their opening Euro 2020 clash against Spain on Monday evening, but they shocked everyone by holding La Furia Roja to a 0-0 draw in Seville.
The favourites couldn't break through the stoic Swedish backline and the visitors even had chances of their own to win the game, but ultimately had to settle for the draw.
That point stands them in good stead to face Slovakia on Friday, the team currently topping Group E, following their 2-1 victory over Poland. But should coach Janne Andersson stick or twist for this crucial Euro 2020 tie?
90min selects the starting lineup Sweden should start against Slovakia.
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Robin Olsen (GK) - This guy simply loves international football. Olsen demonstrated his incredible ability once again in the 0-0 draw with Spain, making a string of fine saves to keep the favourites at bay. Time for heroes, Robin.
Emil Krafth (RB) - Mikael Lustig's injury against Spain has opened the door for Newcastle United star Krafth, who could slot in at right back on Friday.
Victor Lindelof (CB) - It was far from an easy evening against Spain, but Lindelof and his backline came out with a clean sheet and a draw. Can't argue with that.
Marcus Danielson (CB) - He's far from experienced at international level, but Danielson did his bit and looked comfortable in his last outing. Same again.
Ludwig Augustinsson (LB) - Fresh from not having to face Adama Traore on that flank, Augustinsson will be ready to do it all over again with Slovakia next up.
2. Midfielders
Seb Larsson (RM) - Larsson got the nod last time and should keep his place off the back of an experienced and impressive display. He's there for those free-kicks and set pieces, too.
Albin Ekdal (CM) - The Sweden midfield benefitted massively from the experience and knowhow of Ekdal, who has been involved in many 'backs against the wall' jobs against top Serie A teams with Sampdoria.
Kristoffer Olsson (CM) - Olsson dug deep in the stalemate with Spain and should retain his place. Mattias Svanberg is back in the mix however, so he must be looking over his shoulder nervously.
Emil Forsberg (LM) - The RB Leipzig man couldn't find too much joy against Spain, but he will be a much bigger presence in a game where they'll be hoping to create many more opportunities.
3. Forwards
Dejan Kulusevski (ST) - Finally, the superstar is back! Kulusevski has been a huge miss ever since he contracted coronavirus, but his sprinkling of stardust could be back on the pitch against Slovakia.
Alexander Isak (ST) - Completing this young and adventurous forward line is that man Isak. The starlet caught the eye in the 0-0 draw with Spain but was substituted, much to the dismay of the Swedish supporters. He'll be fresh for this test, though.