Slovakia predicted lineup vs Sweden - Euro 2020
By Max Cooper
Euro 2020 could not have got off to a better start for Slovakia.
It was never going to be an easy test against Robert Lewandowski and Poland, but Marek Hamsik's men battled to a precious 2-1 victory.
That result fired Slovakia to the top of Group E, handing them a vital three points in their quest to reach the knockout stages. The underdogs will know that Friday's contest with Sweden now holds even greater importance, too.
Get a positive result here, and they may not need anything against Spain. It's a dream scenario. But which players should start? 90min gives you the lowdown.
1. Goalkeeper & Defenders
Martin Dubravka (GK) - The Newcastle United man was rarely tested by Poland in the recent victory, and will certainly keep his place between the sticks.
Peter Pekarik (RB) - Looked comfortable and used all his 34 years of experience to good effect. Wouldn't expect anything less.
Lubomir Satka (CB) - A decent performance and part of a winning backline, so no reason to make a change. Stop Lewandowski from scoring, and you're doing something right.
Milan Skriniar (CB) - The hero of the backline, and the difference maker in the final third, too. Produced a great strike to win the game, but he'll be watched much more carefully this time.
Tomas Hubocan (LB) - Enjoyed a solid display against Poland, but will be tested by the drifting Kulusevski - if he plays. A potential battle to watch.
2. Midfielders
Juaraj Kucka (CM) - A solid, physical presence in the centre of the park. Not one to shy away from a challenge, and will be needed in what could be a rather stodgy midfield battle.
Jakub Hromada (CM) - A neat and tidy player for Slovakia, and will be hoping to make more of an impression this time round.
Marek Hamsik (AM) - He's still got it, the old man. A major reason behind Slovakia's success in the final third, and a leader by example. Untouchable.
3. Forwards
Lukas Haraslin (RW) - A threat on the flank, and always looking to beat a man and get in behind. Dangerous.
Ondrej Duda (ST) - Likes dropping deeper and showing what he can do when floating between the lines. Complements Hamsik behind him very well.
Robert Mak (LW) - The man who forced Wojciech Szczesny's unfortunate own goal. A tricky, creative force. Such a classic 'tournament' player. We love to see him.