England Set to Start Euro 2000 Campaign with Away Win Against Sweden

England, led by manager Glenn Hoddle, is looking to kick off their Euro 2000 campaign with a win against Sweden at the Rasunda Stadium in Stockholm. The match is expected to be a challenging environment for the English team, as Sweden has a reputation for being a difficult team to beat at home. However, England has shown its ability to perform well in hostile atmospheres, and the team's chances of success are boosted by the expected return of Jamie Redknapp to the midfield, a position where he has previously shown great partnership with Paul Ince.

Key Takeaways:

  • England is looking to start their Euro 2000 campaign with a win against Sweden, a team that has a reputation for being difficult to beat at home.
  • The match is expected to be a challenging environment for the English team, but they have shown their ability to perform well in hostile atmospheres.
  • Jamie Redknapp is expected to return to the midfield, where he has previously shown great partnership with Paul Ince, with the pair winning nine league games, drawing six, and losing none together.
  • Sweden coach Tommy Soderberg has named a mostly pedestrian home defense, which may be vulnerable to attacking trio led by Michael Owen, who is 25-1 to score a hat-trick.
  • England's defense, led by Tony Adams, is expected to be settled and will be a significant advantage for the team.
  • Sweden's main problem is scoring against top teams, with a record of losing 1-0 on three occasions, including a 4-0 defeat in Spain six months ago.
  • Sweden has lost key striker Kennet Andersson to a thigh strain, which will further complicate their attacking options.

Statistics:

  • England has a good record in recent meetings with Sweden, winning 1-1, drawing 2-0, and losing 3-0.
  • Glenn Hoddle was quoted as saying that he has concerns over the fitness of Tony Adams, who is expected to start.
  • Sweden's defense has been criticized for its vulnerability, with Joachim Bjorklund being a key target.
  • Sweden's goalkeeper Magnus Hedman has kept four consecutive clean sheets since their 4-0 defeat in Spain six months ago.
  • England's Michael Owen is 25-1 to score a hat-trick, with Alan Shearer being 28-1.

Sources:

  • The Guardian
  • ESPN
  • BBC Sport