Euro 2012
2012-06-15 - Sweden vs England
A Sports Betting Pick by Lamps
Football : Euro 2012 : Group D
Friday 15th June - Kickoff 7:45pm
Sweden
Hamren's side along with the Czech Republic disappointed me the most after the first round of group games. The Swedes more than matched Ukraine man for man in their 2-1 defeat but the lack of desire and string of errors worries me. With no points and now England next, the Swedes are really up against it and it wouldn't shock me if they exit the tournament this Friday.
The good news for Sweden is that they have a very good record against England losing just 6 of the last 21 meetings. The bad news is that they have only won 6 themselves with the draw a favourable result between the two.
A draw for Sweden leaves them in a precarious position, 1 point with Ukraine on a minimum 3, and France, England minimum 1 and 2 points. They basically need a draw in the other game to keep them in this but I don't think that will happen. As a result France and Ukraine will be on 4 and 3 points respectively so this really is must win.
As expected with Sweden they can do damage going forward but defensively they are very poor. They now stand at 11 of their last 12 competitive matches having 3 goals or more and if Ukraine can get 2 against them I expect England to as well.
England
The Three Lions have started the competition well, they clearly played for a draw against the French and they got the point they craved in a 1-1 draw.
As soon as Milner was picked I thought the side would be one to try and contain the French with two strong banks of four protecting Joe Hart in goal. The system was perfect with England scoring from a free kick with France's equilser a long distance shot through a crowd of players.
The defence was very strong with France unable to get in even once behind the back line. I feel with Sweden likely to play Rosenberg or Elmander up front, both of whom lack pace. The back four should be able to see off any danger and with Parker on Imbrahimovic, the system is there for England to succeed.
Up front I expect Hodgson to start once again with Welbeck who put in a great shift off the ball against France. Against the Swedes he should find more opportunities going forward and up against a weak Swedish defence he should get chances.
Betting Verdict
Having watched both sides last week, I can't see Sweden winning this game and ultimately as they push on trying to get the points they will lose.
I fully expect England to take the lead and then grab that second goal that kill off the Swedes. England will open up themselves this time around but I don't rate the Swedish defence to contain them. I also believe a back four that allows Shevchenko to score is bound to struggle against the likes of Young, Welbeck, Gerrard etc
The overs bet was an option given Sweden's inability to play in low scoring games but at the odds on offer I fancy the English to win and win well.
Good Luck
The Pick :
Sweden 0-2 England
