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Breaking down England’s World Cup adventure in Russia

By James Westwood

MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 11: Players of England applaud their fans following their loss to Croatia in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between England and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 11, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JULY 11: Players of England applaud their fans following their loss to Croatia in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Semi Final match between England and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 11, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) /
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SAMARA, RUSSIA – JULY 07: Gareth Southgate, Manager of England celebrates at the final whistle following victory during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Sweden and England at Samara Arena on July 7, 2018 in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images)
SAMARA, RUSSIA – JULY 07: Gareth Southgate, Manager of England celebrates at the final whistle following victory during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Sweden and England at Samara Arena on July 7, 2018 in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images) /

SWEDEN – Quarterfinals, matchday 5
Final score: 2-0

Sweden has become something of a bogey side for England over the last couple of decades, often managing to stifle their opponents and come away with favourable results despite being constantly painted as underdogs.

The Swede’s defeated Switzerland 1-0 to reach this stage and their campaign was a triumph of organised, well drilled defensive tactics up to this point.

However, they were beaten at their own game by England in this contest, as Harry Maguire headed home from yet another set piece after half an hour to break the deadlock.

Defensively Southgate’s men rarely looked vulnerable, although Jordan Pickford was at his best to deny Sweden on the few occasions they managed to find a way through.

Dele Alli scored just the 3rd goal from open play that England had managed in the tournament to make it 2-0 after 58 minutes and from there they cruised to victory.

Gareth Southgate won more plaudits for his passion and commitment as his nation secured a World Cup semifinal berth for the first time since 1990.

“England are absolutely good enough to win the World Cup,” said Sweden manager Janne Andersson post-match.

“They are forceful and well organised. Congratulations to both the team and the coach. They are a good side, who did not give a lot of openings.”

But their biggest test was yet to come, in the form of a Luka Modric led Croatia.

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