Sweden
Tactics
Lars Lagerback likes the tried and tested and this means sticking with a 4-1-3-2. Unfortunately, injuries have put a spanner in the works. The usually dependable midfield sweeper Tobias Linderoth is set to miss the finals; in his place Lagerback may decide to use Kallstrom, who is used to playing further forward.
Problem position
Left-back Erik Edman has also been ruled out by injury. To fill the gap, usual right-back Nilsson should switch flanks. Stoor will come in at right-back, a problem position for years.
The traditional Swedish virtues of solid organisation, physical strength and good team spirit offer all the guarantees Lagerback is looking for, and his side are designed to play on the counter. Much will depend on how well the trio of attacking midfielders support the front two. Ljungberg, if fit, will buzz around in the left and central areas; Svensson, in the centre, links intelligently with Ljungberg; and on the right, Larsson, Wilhelmsson and Bakircioglu compete for a starting role.
Defensive strategy
Mellberg will probably have Majstorovic beside him in central defence, though Hansson is in with a shout. The defensive strategy is generally to force the opposition to attack on the flanks, where space is more restricted.
Star forward Ibrahimovic has much freedom to roam, in contrast to strike partner Allback, who does his best work in the box. Elmander and Rosenberg are alternatives to Allback.
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