England were the better side, admits Andersson

Sweden manager Janne Andersson acknowledged that England was the better team on the evening after his side crashed out of the FIFA World Cup on Saturday.

Published : Jul 07, 2018 22:43 IST

Sweden manager Janne Andersson acknowledged that England was the better team on the evening after his side crashed out of the FIFA World Cup after suffering a 2-0 loss to the English in Saturday's quarterfinal.

"Nothing went wrong. We faced a really great opponent and we couldn't reach our peak. The margin was hardly there and for the first half hour it was even and then they scored from a set piece. We had three excellent opportunities in the second half and we failed. They were the best team today and we have to accept that," Andersson told reporters post the match. 

READ: Maguire, Alli seal semis berth for England

The gaffer also stated that he wasn't with how his team conceded the first goal. "I emphasise a lot on set pieces and its unfortunate we conceded from one in the 30th minute because till then we were in control," he said.

The 55-year-old heaped praise on England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford for his fine display.
"Marcus Berg came close twice tonight but both times (Jordan) Pickford came out with better saves and we have to acknowledge the quality. It's disappointing he hasn't got a goal this World Cup but he has done a lot of hard work."

"England are heavy, forceful and well organised and they can win the World Cup as they also don't give too many openings. Gareth Southgate has done a great job," he added.

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