Proud Andersson lauds Sweden’s togetherness heading into last 16

Janne Andersson was taken aback by Sweden’s performance against Mexico in clinching qualification for the World Cup last 16.

Sweden advanced to the knockout round thanks to Wednesday’s 3-0 win over Mexico in Group F. Andersson’s men were heartbroken by Germany in a 95th-minute defeat last week, a result that left the Swedes on the brink of elimination.

But victory against Mexico coupled with Germany’s shock loss to South Korea meant Sweden moved through while the reigning champions were sent home.

“We work as a team. We want to give our players every chance to succeed,” Andersson said during his post-match news conference.

“I’m so incredibly proud and almost moved by the thought of how we performed. They were so loyal. We grew more since the Germany game.”

Sweden were left angered in Sochi on matchday two after Germany staff taunted and celebrated Toni Kroos’ dramatic late winner in front of the dugout.

Asked whether he took satisfaction with Germany’s elimination as Sweden advanced, Andersson replied: “No. Never in a million years.

“You play a match and shake matches afterwards. That’s what happens. I spoke to my German colleague after the match. I was very angry but that was then and this is now.”

Ludwig Augustinsson was named man of the match after opening the scoring before Andreas Granqvist’s penalty and a freakish own goal.

Reflecting on Sweden’s achievement, Augustinsson told reporters: “We didn’t expect to win the group, even though we thought we could qualify.

“We’ve already shown anything is possible.”

“I like the Germany team. A fantastic team,” added Augustinsson, who plays for Bundesliga side Werder Bremen. “They won the World Cup. This is football. A few days ago we lost in the last minute. Now we come back and go through.

“Germany had the chance to win and they didn’t so it’s difficult. We deserved to win the group.”