England’s early signs show The Beautiful Game’s not just a movie
England’s men arrived in style with a thumping 6-1 victory over Sweden that showed plenty of flair and talent to look forward to.
In the opening stages of the game, England controlled possession of the ball, with two early chances going wide of the post and a third blocked by what seemed to be a sturdy Swedish defence.
But just two minutes in, The Three Lions took full advantage of their early possession and opened the scoring. A swift, but composed build up opened up the chance for a shot, which was taken well by the England side.
With England controlling the ball, the Swedes had to rely on counter attacks after breakdowns in play. The Blågult were able to take advantage of this on a few occasions, and but for a very fit England team - who were able to get back into shape well and nullify any threat- they may have found themselves a goal or two in the lead.
Moments after a Sweden counter, England were able to ease the pressure and double their lead, once again showing good ability to move the ball quickly to unlock the resilient Swedish defence.
After the break, both teams still had plenty to give, leading to a feisty opening phase of play. With the ball bouncing around, Sweden were able to work themselves into an attacking position, but to no prevail.
But it wasn’t all plain sailing for the English team, with a lapse in concentration and communication, seeing a goal kick intercepted on the edge of the area and letting the Swedes back into the game.
The English team were able to get their foot back on the ball, and the game resumed a similar pattern to the first half. With both sides sticking to a clear game plan, it was England who made their chances count.
Their fifth and sixth goals were the pick of the bunch as Keidi Xhika showed off some fancy footwork to turn his defender and slot the ball into the far corner with finesse.
Xhika was again showing his talent with quick feet to shift the ball away from his marker and create a yard of space. Followed by a powerful strike, the young forward saw the ball nestle into the back of the net, giving no chance for Mika Haltsonen Koli to save.
A dominant display from the England team should give them the confidence to go far into the tournament, showing good technique and skill in a 6-1 victory over a determined and well organised Sweden side.
Interview with England coach Matthew Nathan-Pepple
Q: A 6-1 victory in your opening game, you must be thrilled with the guys?
A: I am absolutely ecstatic right now, I feel all the patience of planning and training has paid off and they played beautifully in the first game. I’m happy as hell!
Q: I heard tempo being shouted from your coaching staff a lot, is this something you have been focusing on, to keep the tempo of the game in your control?
A: 100%, we need to keep the ball moving, but also slowing it down, because we know in attacking areas that’s the best time to catch our breath. As when we are defending we are constantly moving side to side, but when we have the ball, we can keep the ball moving fast when we want to score, and that’s something we've worked hard on to know when to change the tempo of the game.
Q: Do you think you can go all the way?
A: Of Course.
Words by Izaak Darvill | Photos by John Anderson