World Cup 2018: 5 Things England Need To Improve To Beat Sweden
1. Don't Settle For A 1-0 Win
When Eric Dier replaced Dele Alli with nine minutes to go against Colombia, Gareth Southgate essentially confirmed that he was happy with a 1-0 victory, and didn't want to risk going on the attack for a second goal. He could have brought on Ruben Loftus-Cheek or Fabian Delph in midfield, but instead opted for the much more defensive Dier.
This is always a dangerous game to play, as a goal can come at any time and change everything, as it did with Colombia. One mistake led to a corner, which subsequently led to a goal, practically out of nothing.
By the end of extra time England were lucky to get to penalties at all, with Colombia taking the momentum that came with the last minute equaliser and running with it. This all could have been avoided had England not settled for a one goal advantage and been a bit more positive toward the end of the game.
Particularly true in tournament football, a 1-0 lead is never safe.