Spain Sweden Draw at Euro 2020 as Alexander Isak Shines

Alexander Isak put in an impressive performance as Spain and Sweden got their Euro 2020 bid underway at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville. In both sides opening Group E clash, the game ended a stalemate at 0-0.

Spain Sweden Draw at Euro 2020 as Alexander Isak Shines

Spain Stifled Sweden – A Tactical Analysis

Luis Enrique’s Spain set up in their familiar 4-3-3 formation. Spain played Unai Simon in goal while there was a debut for Aymeric Laporte in tournament football. In midfield, there was a start for Barcelona’s Pedri and Alvaro Morata was chosen as the preference to lead the line in attack.

For Sweden, Janne Andersson’s side formed a rigid 4-4-2 formation with Robin Olsen between the posts, Victor Lindelof marshalling the defence, Emil Forsberg on the wing and Alexander Isak upfront.

Spain Yet to Crack the Swedish Code at Euro 2020

For all Spain’s pretty possession and dominance of the ball from start to finish (85% of the ball with 17 shots to four), Luis Enrique’s men were unable to unlock the Swedish door. The Swedes produced a robust and stoic effort. They successfully thwarted the Spaniards time and time again. It was a masterclass in organisation and spirit and for the majority of the game, they looked composed and comfortable in defence.

Spain had their chances, namely Alvaro Morata, who had two clear chances to open the scoring. However, the striker was unable to take advantage. Spain were much the better side in the first half and did all but get the ball in the net. But it was Sweden who came closest to scoring with a shot by Isak which rebounded off the Spanish defence onto the post.

In the second half, the script of the match continued. Spain were pressing for the goal and Sweden happy to sit back and soak up the pressure. But Spain could not muster the energy levels of the first half and only created half chances to miss out on victory. Meanwhile, a lack of creativity and quality finishing cost them dearly on the night.

The Key Men of Spain and Sweden Euro 2020: Alexander Isak and Pedri

Goalkeeper Robin Olsen was in inspired form to shut out the Spaniards. He made several crucial saves to keep the home side at bay. Alexander Isak did not get on the scoresheet but went mighty close. He worked his socks off for Sweden with a thankless task against a tenacious Spain team.

He made many driving runs forward, showing deft skill and put a killer ball into Marcus Berg on the back post. But Berg missed that glorious opportunity.

As for Spain, Pedri belied his young age of just 18 to produce an accomplished performance. His personality to want the ball and his creativity gave Sweden many problems. Therefore, he was always an outlet for the attack. His debut in an international tournament mirrored that of Aymeric Laporte, who also put in a composed and solid performance at the back for Spain.

Spain dominated their opponents on all counts in Seville apart from the most important, which of course was in the goalscoring. Spain intended to win the game and Sweden intended to obtain the draw. Therefore, the Swedes won in that respect. 80% of the matches played by Spain in Seville have been won by La Roja. The city continues to be their talisman but they will have to find the way through to goal to go far at Euro 2020.