Sweden vs. Belgium: Is this it for Zlatan Ibrahimovic?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic will hope to inspire Sweden to a much-needed win as they take on Belgium at the Stade de Nice on Wednesday evening.
On Tuesday, the outspoken striker announced his retirement after this tournament. As Sweden’s all-time top goalscorer, Ibrahimovic naturally wants to sign off on a high note. Whilst no one expected Sweden to actually win Euro 2016, it has been nonetheless a disappointing tournament for the team and its star man.
Ibrahimovic was second in goal output during qualifiers. Only Robert Lewandowski scored more – 13 versus his 11. As such, everyone expected the former PSG man to have a good showing this summer in France – especially given that he could potentially make history.
He and Cristiano Ronaldo both have scored in their past three Euro tournaments and could become the first ever to score in four. To date, however, Ibrahimovic has yet to open his account, let alone have a shot on target. Obviously, this is not the way he wanted to sign off on his international career, but he – and Sweden – have a chance at redemption in their last group stage match.
Unfortunately for Sweden, they’re taking on Belgium. The Red Devils did start off slowly as they lost 2-0 to Italy, but rebounded in style as they thrashed Ireland 3-0. Marc Wilmots’s side appear to be growing in confidence; by contrast, Erik Hamren’s Sweden appear to be devoid of it. With just one point, the Scandinavian side are only ahead of Ireland based on goal difference – and this is something that will come in handy.
How? Well, a win for Sweden guarantees a spot in the round of 16. Of course, this is provided Ireland do not manage to crush Italy. A loss or draw, obviously, will eliminate them at the group stages for the third straight tournament. From a Belgian perspective, a mere draw will suffice, but naturally, they’re going for all three points.
Mousa Dembélé and Yannick Carrasco are in doubt due to fitness problems, but other from that, Wilmots has no injury or suspensions to trouble him. Only Mikael Lustig is listed as doubtful for Sweden.
If Sweden do win, it will be a long time coming. The last time they came out on top was in 1961. Will Ibrahimovic end their decades-long wait whilst making history? We’re all awaiting to see what he has in store for us in less than 24 hours’ time.
