Spain will be frustrated but Sweden will be delighted at the lively 0-0 stalemate played out in their first game of Euro 2020.
The weight of expectation was heavy on the shoulders of the former European champions Spain who absolutely dominated possession but were unable to break through a staunch Swedish defensive outfit.
Circumstances marred Spain's preparations with very few of their squad having played in their final warm up game, while Sweden had to deal with the glaring omission of talismanic striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
From the outset Spain's high tempo, quick passing game quickly came into effect and forced Sweden onto the back foot early on, but their inefficiency was on show as their inability to turn chances into goals was evident all game long.
Marcus Berg and Rodri compete for the ball
Dani Olmo, Alvaro Morata, Gerard Moreno, Koke and Ferran Torres did the bulk of Spain's damage, putting in 15 shots between them as Spain utterly destroyed the Swedes on the stat sheet with 85% of possession.
Unfortunately a total of 5 shots on target out of 17 will be Spain's downfall and something that will need addressing ahead of their next game against Poland.
As for Sweden they were up for the challenge defensively but couldn't find their feet on the attacking end. Manchester United's Victor Lindelof took out man of the match but his compatriot between the sticks, Robin Olsen, would be equally deserving of the accolade.
Victor Lindelof urges on his teammates
Making crucial saves against Koke in the 18th minute and Moreno in the 97th minute, Olsen will be hailed as their hero from this game and someone to keep the Swedes powering forward this campaign.
Their defensive performance won't be their only talking point. Despite the squad registering just 4 shots and none on target, the closest chance came the way of 21-year-old striker Alexander Isak.
His presence and quality will be something for fans to look out for this Euro 2020.
EURO 2020 - GROUP STAGE
Spain – 0
Sweden – 0
Estadio Olimpico de la Cartuja - Seville
