Emil Forsberg’s deflected shot was the difference in an otherwise drab round-of-16 matchup between Sweden and Switzerland. The first half was relatively pedestrian with Switzerland edging with possession and attempts but failed to convert clear-cut chances. Sweden defended resolutely to curb Xherdan Shaqiri from the right. However, Forsberg was left unmarked at the edge of the box and his shot deflected off Manuel Akanji to give Sweden the lead in the second half and ensure a 1-0 victory.

There was drama in injury time when Sweden launched a counter-attack that left Martin Olsson one-on-one with the goalkeeper but was fouled from the back by Swiss defender Michael Lang – he was sent off as a result.

Sweden have proved to be difficult to beat and they will advance to the Quarter-Finals to face the winner between Colombia and England.

Ade Thompson