Unfancied Sweden claimed victory in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in Prague on Tuesday evening, defeating a star-studded Portugal side 4-3 on penalty kicks to seal the title.
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The game itself had finished 0-0 after a full ninety minutes of action, while neither side was able to break the deadlock in extra-time.
With the two teams inseperable, the match headed to penalty kicks where AIK’s Patrick Carlgren was the Swedish hero with a decisive save from William Carvalho’s spot-kick.
It was the second time in the shootout the young ‘keeper had proved Portugal’s nemesis having also saved from Sporting’s Ricardo Esgaio, only for Jose Sa to deny Abdul Khalili to level the scores prior to William’s error.
The result hands Sweden their first ever title at Under-21 level, having previously finished as runner-up in 1992. For Portugal, their wait for a title continues with a second defeat at the final hurdle, repeating the achievements of Figo and co. in 1994.
Sweden know how to celebrate. They also don’t forget. #U21EURO #Sweden pic.twitter.com/ZcsTkJ1mZ6
— Cristian Nyari (@Cnyari) June 30, 2015
Portugal had begun the brighter of the two sides, with Monaco’s Bernardo Silva particularly impressive in the early stages.
Midfielder Sergio Oliveira rattled the crossbar after just seven minutes with a well-struck free-kick effort, but it was not to be for a player who has emerged as one of the stars of the tournament as the ball bounced safely clear.
However, it quickly became clear that the title favourites would not have the game all their own way and the longer the tie went on, the more the advantage appeared to tilt towards Sweden, with the Scandinaveans’ fitness levels seemingly aiding their cause.
Had John Guidetti capitalised upon a golden chance with just minutes remaining of normal time, the drama of spot-kicks may not have been needed. However, the Manchester City youngster fluffed his lines and it was Carlgren who would prove the Swedish hero on the night.
