The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) came to Sweden’s rescue as it was put to use in awarding the Swedes a penalty which led to the winning goal against South Korea on Monday.
Competing at a World Cup for the first time since 2006, Sweden deserved to win a match which was peppered with more fouls than flair.
Sweden, who knocked out Italy in the playoffs to reach Russia 2018, had chances to go ahead before Granqvist’s 65th-minute penalty but were denied by a brilliant goalkeeping display by Kim Seungguy.
Indeed, the highlight of the first half was a fantastic save from Kim at point-blank range from Marcus Berg.
The Sweden striker should have scored to capitalize on a half which consisted of eight attempts on goal by Sweden compared to South Korea’s one.
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In truth, there was more intrigue and excitement in the build up to the match, with Sweden manager Janne Andersson apologizing after a member of the Sweden coaching staff was caught watching a South Korea training session. There had been a misunderstanding, he said, with his scout believing the session was open to all.
South Korea’s manager Shin Tae-yong said his players switched shirts to cause confuse because, in his words, « they might know a few of our players but it is very difficult for Westerners to distinguish between Asians. »
Shin’s men will next face Mexico and will hope for a better result if they are to improve on their showing from four years ago when they finished bottom of their group with a solitary point.
Sweden, reveling from a first opening win at a World Cup since 1958, take on Germany on 23 June in a match where the pressure will be on the Germans.
