Prediction: Sweden vs Spain

Prediction: Spain win

Best Odds: 3/4

Bookmaker: 888sport

Domestic football has been put on pause for a few weeks in favour of the return of the international break – the first one of the new campaign. In the wake of the Euros and Copa America, as well as the Olympics, many would expect this to be a fairly inconsequential few weeks. Alas, the pandemic has ensured we have to speed up the process on the road to Qatar with Sweden and Spain being two of the many European nations attempting to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Sweden

Sweden’s reserved, defensive style always seems to see them pick up a positive result or two when it comes to international tournaments and they were able to carve out a similar niche for themselves at the Euros. The absence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic meant they didn’t have the kind of potent attacking force they would’ve desired, but making it to the knockouts would’ve been enough to signal the kind of intent they have in the next few years.

Team News

Lindelof is the new captain of the Swedish national team but in terms of absences, Danielson is suspended after picking up a red card against Ukraine at Euro 2020.

Spain

Spain’s ‘keep-ball’ possession style isn’t exactly as pretty on the eye as it was all those years ago when they won three tournaments in a row, but it still helps them grind out results – and that’s all that matters at this level. They were within a few kicks of the ball from actually making it to an unlikely final at Wembley this past July and if they can find a more consistent starting XI with strength in depth, the World Cup could be another surprising success story for the 2010 champions.

Team News

Gerard Moreno isn’t expected to start and will be a fitness doubt for this one whereas Torres and Pedri have both been given time off after a busy summer. Elsewhere, Pedri, Torres and Olmo are all missing with Adama Traore tipped to feature after a strong start to the campaign with Wolves.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting at Euro 2020, Spain and Sweden drew 0-0.
• Sweden have won both of their WCQ qualifying games in Group B.
• Spain have won two and drawn one of their WCQ qualifying games in Group B.
• Sweden reached the Round of 16 stage at Euro 2020 where they were knocked out by Ukraine.
• Spain reached the semi-final stage at Euro 2020 before being knocked out by Italy.

Conclusion

The one big thing the Spaniards can take away from Euro 2020 is a renewed sense of confidence and while that may not sound like a big deal, it will be for a team that was completely and utterly dismissed before a ball was even kicked. We think they’re going to push on, especially after a strong showing in Tokyo too, and put Sweden to the sword with a professional 2-0 win that takes them one step closer to the World Cup.

Prediction: Spain win

Best Odds: 3/4

Bookmaker: 888sport