Russia takes commanding lead in crunch EURO 2008 game
Published 18 June, 2008, 19:50
Russia has inched closer to a quarter-final spot at Euro 2008 in Austria, after Andrey Arshavin scored to put them 2-0 ahead of Sweden. Roman Pavlyuchenko scored for Russia in the 23rd minute. Victory will put Russia into the quarter-finals for the first time in modern history.
With a better goal difference than Russia, Sweden only need a draw to advance behind Group D winners Spain, while Russia must win to stay alive in the tournament.
Russia has the youngest team at the tournament with an average age of 26, while Sweden are the oldest, with average age of around 29.
Russia coach Guus Hiddink believes that the Swedish players' greater experience will give them the advantage over his team.
The Russians will be strengthened with the return of star player Andrey Arshavin from suspension.
Russia have had mixed results in their opening two games. They lost to Spain 4-1 but ended Greek hopes with a 1-0 win in the second match.
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