Sweden earns promotion to top tier
BERLIN: Sweden defeated Russia 20 to gain promotion to the top tier of the Nations League yesterday, while James Forrest bagged a hattrick for Scotland in a 32 victory over Israel to seal a place in the second tier.
European champion Portugal, assured of a place in the fourteam finals, drew 11 with Poland, which was already relegated from its group.
Elsewhere, Serbia grabbed a 41 win over Lithuania to secure top place in its group while Kosovo gained promotion with a 40 rout of Azerbaijan.
Goals from Victor Lindelof and Marcus Berg secured the win over Russia, thanks to a better headtohead record than the visiting side.
Both teams finished on seven points but a scoreless draw in Russia and yesterday’s win in Stockholm propelled the Swedes into the top tier of the new competition as group winner.
‘‘It’s great that we were able to showcase how we can play here at home,’’ Sweden coach Janne Andersson said.
‘‘I am immensely pleased with what we have achieved in this competition.’’
The Swedes will be in League A for the next Nations League campaign and have an extra chance to qualify for Euro 2020 via the playoffs if they need it.
Man of the match Forrest said he aimed to keep grounded despite claiming the match ball after an impressive performance for Scotland at Hampden Park.
‘‘It was a great night,’’ the 27yearold said. ‘‘Going one goal behind after 10 minutes took a lot out of the boys and we showed a lot of character. It was credit to all the boys.
‘‘I just keep working hard and keep grounded and keep going.’’
Poland forward Arkadiusz Milik scored from a twicetaken penalty to give his alreadyrelegated side a draw in Portugal.
Portugal went ahead with Andre Silva’s nearpost header from a corner in the 34th minute but the home side gave away a penalty when midfielder Danilo tripped Milik as he burst into the area and was sent off.
Milik’s first effort from the spot was disallowed for encroachment, but he held his nerve to score again at the second attempt in the 66th minute.
Portugal was without Cristiano Ronaldo who has not been selected since the World Cup. In other matches, Romania beat Montenegro 10 away while Malta and Faroe Islands drew 11.