Tuesday 3rd July 1500hrs Sweden v Switzerland Football – International – World Cup This is without doubt the surprising fixture of the last 16 as both Sweden and Switzerland were up against it in their efforts to make the knockout stages. It also means one of them will be playing in the quarter finals which would have been beyond both of their wildest dreams at the start of the competition. It’s the side of the draw that has completely opened up following the elimination of some massive countries and these two lesser fancied teams are looking to take advantage. Match preview and betting tips for Sweden against Switzerland below.
Sweden were desolate following the extremely late Toni Kroos winner for Germany in the second group game. It looked as though the Scandinavians had seen their hopes of making the last 16 slip through their fingers coming up against a flying Mexico outfit in their final group game whilst Germany were expected to coast past an already eliminated South Korea. The Swedes were having none of it though as they produced a mighty performance to beat Mexico 3-0 to top the section. We should not be totally surprised as they have reached this stage in their last three visits to the World Cup, even reaching the last four in 1994. It is now a distinct possibility they can have their performance since then in Russia but to do that they’ll face stiff opposition in the form of Switzerland.
Switzerland were impressive during qualifying, dropping points in just one game – a loss away to Portugal. It resulted in them having to go through the playoffs and endure a war of attrition against Northern Ireland over two legs. They came out on top, of course, but were drawn in a very tricky section containing Brazil, Serbia and Costa Rica. A deserved draw against the tournament favourites in their opening games was followed by a come from behind win against Serbia which has been crucial in them making it to the last 16. A draw in their final games ensured they finished second and qualify from the group stage for the third time in their last four attempts. They have never made it further than this since 1954 and they will be thinking that it is long overdue – could this be their year?
Sweden v Switzerland Betting Tips
It’s fair to say that both of these will be relatively happy they are playing each other for a place in the last eight. Neither have the stars that other countries have but they are two teams who know their jobs and play to their strengths. It may not be everybody’s cup of tea and it’s a case of substance over style but it has proven effective and neither will navigate away from it now. Rankings mean little but Switzerland are 18 places better off according to FIFA’s rating system but it would be a surprise if there is much between them both come game time on Tuesday.
The winners of this tie will face the winners of Colombia against England which takes place later on Tuesday evening. It certainly does open up a viable route to the semi finals but it could well be an arduous route to begin with as I expect this game to be one of a few chances and goals. The draw is the most likely outcome after 90 minutes and could well be the third game in this round of 16 that requires penalties to find a winner.
Betting Tip Draw 2/1 @ Betfair
