Tuesday, June 19, 2012

France 0 - 2 Sweden (full-time) UPDATED



First chance of the match comes for Sweden as Martin Olsson delivers a dangerous cross into the box. However, Toivonen heads it wide. France's first chance comes from Benzema, who finds Ribery ready to shoot, but Isaksson makes a good save and clears the danger. Best chance so far comes from a mistake by Philippe Mexes, who gets robbed by Toivonen, but the striker cannot convert aven after rounding goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. Another opportunity for Sweden as Svensson's deflected shot finds itself at Toivonen's feet, but the offside flag is raised just when he challenged Lloris. France respond with Franck RIbery who skips past the Swedish defence before striking the ball. However, brilliant defending from Mellberg prevents the first goal of the match




2nd half


France open the second half with a chance from Benzema, who cuts inside from the flank and tries to curl the ball in, but his shot is only inches wide. Sweden respond magnificently with a cross inside the box which is met by Ibrahimovic, who volleys it and scores the opener. Sweden nearly make it two as Ibrahimovic brings into play Wilhelmsson, but Lloris blocks well. 





France try to get back in the game with successive shots, all of which are dealt with equally good blocks from the Swedish defence. Giroud almost makes an instant impact after entering and advancing into the box, but he heads it over from close range. Sweden seal the game in stoppage time as Wilhelmsson shoots from a cross and hits the crossbar, but Larsson pops out and tucks it away. France dominated the first half, but the Swedes responded well in the second half and merited the win after a thrilling match.


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