Powerhouse Sweden overrun Mexico
Sweden go from third to first with a stunning 3-0 win
Outplayed Mexico survive after Germany stumble
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Sweden turned in a perfect performance to reach the Round of 16 in style with a 3-0 victory over Group F pace-setters Mexico. El Tri were only saved from a cruel exit due to Germany's defeat against Korea Republic.
The Europeans started in powerful fashion, dominating goalscoring opportunities and constantly looking dangerous in the air. However, they had to wait until five minutes into the second half to break the deadlock, as Ludwig Augustinsson swept home at the back post.
Looking for a two goal win to guarantee progression, Sweden doubled their advantage when Andreas Granqvist converted from the penalty spot just past the hour mark. And the Blagula were in dreamland with 16 minutes remaining after Mexico defender Edson Alvarez forced the ball over his own line.
Mexico built late momentum but Sweden remained impressively resolute at the back. And in remarkable scenes, a wave of noise swept through the arena in the dying minutes as the massive Mexican contingent received news of the unexpected result in Kazan.
Team reporter analysis Martin Langer with Mexico [Follow: Twitter | Facebook] Mexico were deservedly defeated by Sweden in their last group match but somehow managed to stay in the World Cup after Germany's shock stumble. El Tri never managed to counter the Swedes' high balls and counter-attacks and looked second-best for the entire match, even when they needed a goal to get back in it. It seemed set to be a sad end to a campaign that had started with so much hope, but that somehow has been given a lifeline with the most unexpected result elsewhere.
Gallery: Mexico 0-3 Sweden
Alexandra Jonson with Sweden [Follow: Twitter | Facebook] Janne Andersson got it completely right, putting high pressure on Mexico from the start and using the height difference of the two teams to maximum advantage. An impressive performance from the Swedes, who once again showed the strength of their teamwork. Advancing from the group stage with two victories can't be seen as anything other than a huge achievement by them.
Budweiser Man of the Match Ludwig Augustinsson was named Budweiser Man of the Match for his attacking threat and crucial opening goal – his first at a FIFA World Cup™.
The stat 7 - Mexico qualify for the knockout stages for the seventh consecutive World Cup despite this defeat.
What's next Sweden v Switzerland, Round of 16, 3 July, St. Petersburg Brazil v Mexico, Round of 16, 2 July, Samara
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