2018 FIFA World Cup: Sweden and Switzerland Meet in Round of 16
- Sweden and Switzerland kick off at 10:00 am EST on Tuesday July 3rd
- #24 ranked Sweden attempting to rekindle the magic of 1994
- #6 ranked Switzerland will have to make key changes to their starting lineup
The final day of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 gets started with a match between Sweden and Switzerland, scheduled for 10:00 am EST on July 3rd.
The Swedes
Sweden is looking to move past the Round of 16 for the first time since World Cup 1994. That summer the Swedes won Bronze, their best finish in the modern era. On Wednesday the Swedes beat Mexico 3-0, their first three-goal win since 1994. The win secured their position atop of Group F, a group many believed Sweden could not top.
Sweden does not boast a roster of household names, but stoic coach Janne Andersson has the team playing a cohesive defensive game that other teams have difficulty breaking.
This was exemplified during the group phase, as Sweden produced shutouts against South Korea, and the talented Mexican team. The only goals allowed were against a desperate German team, one coming off a free kick by expert marksman Toni Kroos.
Watch for Sweden to continue playing a defensive game, looking to counter at the most opportune time. Swedish strikers Berg, and Tolvonen have shown the ability to pounce of any opposing times defensive lapse. Their last game versus Mexico best exemplifies the Swedes playing style.
The Swiss
Switzerland finished 2nd in Group E, an expected finish in a group with the likes of Brazil. Switzerland was able to draw Brazil, beat Serbia, and tie Costa Rica. Players, staff, and fans of the team all believe Switzerland has yet to play to their ability.
Their best performance thus far was a come from behind win against a Serbian team that knew a win would guarantee them a birth in the Round of 16.
Head coach Vladmir Petkovic has lineup changes to make as starters Stephan Lichsteiner and Fabian Schar are both suspended. Petkovic will have to factor Sweden’s stature and physicality into his decision, look for physical players such as Lang or Djourou to debut.
Xherdan Shaqiri is a weapon in Switzerland’s arsenal that could take over the game. The diminutive forward has one goal thus far, and has shown the speed and ball skills to break defensive lines and cause timely fouls.
World Cup Stats
| 1-2-0 | Record | 2-0-1 |
| 5 | Goals Scored | 5 |
| 4 | Goals Allowed | 2 |
| 1 | Goal Differential | 3 |
| 38/10 | Total Shots/Shots on Target | 36/15 |
| 55% | Possession % | 39% |
| 15 | Corners | 12 |
Switzerland vs Sweden Opening Odds
| MONEYLINE | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Switzerland +165 | Switzerland pick (-130) | 2(-130)u |
| Sweden +205 | Sweden pick (+110) | 2(+110)o |
Betting Advice & Outcome
Pick: Draw +200
With Sweden boasting a formidable team defense there is a high likelihood that after ninety minutes this game will be a draw.
Sweden is most likely to sit back and play a defensive front, only looking to counter at the most opportune times. Set pieces may be a key factor, as Sweden does have a significant size advantage over the Swiss.
After 90, I think Sweden could use their size advantage on quick counters as the Swiss try and push the ball forward. If the game reaches penalties the Swiss skills could carry them forward.
Expect an exciting, aggressive match between these two European nations.
From hockey to football, to basketball, baseball, soccer, and rugby, Cory is on top of it all. He grew up playing sports, has worked around them ever since (including as a talent scout), and is one of SBD's most experienced bettors.
