The European Under-17 Championship promises an exciting matchup as Slovakia U17s take on Sweden U17s on May 21, 2024.
This clash at the Paralimni Stadium in Cyprus marks the beginning of their Group C journey, which also features Italy and Poland.
Match Preview
Slovakia U17s' Journey
Slovakia U17s enter this tournament making their second appearance at the European Under-17 Championship.
They earned their spot by progressing through the qualifying rounds, notably securing narrow victories over Switzerland and Greece.
Although they faced a setback with a 3-0 loss to the group winners in their final qualifier, their strong form suggests they are a formidable side.
Historically, Slovakia's best performance was a semi-final finish in 2013, a tournament they hosted. Interestingly, they played Sweden in that year, ending in a goalless draw. This year, Slovakia aims to replicate or even surpass their previous success.
Sweden U17s' Track Record
Sweden U17s boast a rich history in this competition, having reached the semi-finals in 2013 and the quarter-finals in both 2016 and 2018.
Despite failing to advance from the group stage in 2019 and 2022, they have shown resilience and determination to come back stronger.
In the qualifiers, Sweden topped their group with impressive performances, including victories over Bulgaria and Wales, and a draw against Romania.
Known for their strong starts, Sweden has won the opening match in five of their six previous appearances at the European Under-17 Championship.
Team News and Lineups
Slovakia U17s
Slovakia might opt for a back three featuring Matus Pavlik, Dominik Balog, and Marek Okal.
In attack, David Bukovsky and Jakub Pira are pushing for a starting role. Their likely lineup could be:
Slovakia U17s Possible Starting XI
Zajac; Pavlik, Balog, Okal; Turansky, Vlna, Strucka, Trello, Lusale; Pira, Bukovsky
Sweden U17s
Sweden is expected to start with Elton Fischerstrom in goal, with Harry Hilvenius and Bleon Kurtulus as central defenders.
Bayern Munich forward Jonah Kusi Asare is anticipated to lead their attack. Their probable lineup is:
Sweden U17s Possible Starting XI
Fischerstrom; Nafors Dahlin, Hilvenius, Kurtulus, Antwi; Busuladzic, Lahdo; Jonsson, Andersson, Isaksson; Kusi-Asare
Prediction
Considering Sweden's current form and their strong track record in tournament openers, they are likely to edge out Slovakia in this encounter.
With four wins in their last five matches, Sweden is predicted to continue their impressive run.
Our Prediction: Slovakia U17s 1-2 Sweden U17s
FAQ
When and where is the Slovakia U17s vs Sweden U17s match taking place? The Slovakia U17s vs Sweden U17s match is scheduled for May 21, 2024, at the Paralimni Stadium in Cyprus.
What is the significance of this match? This match marks the opening game for both teams in Group C of the European Under-17 Championship. It is crucial for setting the tone for their performances in the tournament, with Italy and Poland also competing in the same group.
How did Slovakia U17s qualify for the European Under-17 Championship? Slovakia U17s progressed through the qualifying rounds by finishing in the top two of their group. They secured victories over Switzerland and Greece, which helped them earn a spot in the tournament.
What is Slovakia U17s' historical performance in the European Under-17 Championship? Slovakia U17s are making their second appearance in the tournament. Their best performance was a semi-final finish in 2013, the last time they competed.
How did Sweden U17s qualify for the European Under-17 Championship? Sweden U17s topped their qualifying group by securing victories over Bulgaria and Wales and drawing against Romania. Their consistent performance in the qualifiers earned them a place in the tournament.
What is Sweden U17s' track record in the European Under-17 Championship? Sweden U17s have a strong history in the tournament, reaching the semi-finals in 2013 and the quarter-finals in 2016 and 2018. However, they did not advance from the group stage in 2019 and 2022.
Who are the key players for Slovakia U17s? Key players for Slovakia U17s include defenders Matus Pavlik, Dominik Balog, and Marek Okal. Forwards David Bukovsky and Jakub Pira are also crucial for their attacking lineup.
Who are the key players for Sweden U17s? Key players for Sweden U17s include goalkeeper Elton Fischerstrom, defenders Harry Hilvenius and Bleon Kurtulus, and forward Jonah Kusi Asare from Bayern Munich.
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