Tobias Thulin doesn't seem to be the morning-tired type. When Blågult finished their group play in Paris – the clock struck 09 – it was the goalkeeper's brilliant play that ensured Sweden took an early grip on the game against Japan.
The Swedish outfield players did start a bit drowsily and only managed to score one goal in the first seven minutes of the match. But when a penalty save from Thulin was followed by Albin Lagergren's 3–2, Sweden took the lead for the first time – and never let go.
It's clear I'm pleased with the match, I think I got a good start. It's flowing really well in the first half and I get a lot of bonus saves. We're standing strong, especially in the first half. A strong performance really, says Thulin in Max.
Quarterfinal on Wednesday
Already at 16–9 at halftime – Tobias Thulin had saved half of the Japanese shots so far – it was clear that Sweden would secure the point needed to advance to the quarterfinal in Lille on Wednesday.
Now we have a few days off to recover after five tough matches in the group stage. I'm looking forward to going to Lille and then we'll see who we get. But we have a chance against all teams really when we play at our best, we can beat anyone, says he.
The national team enters the knockout stage with boosted morale and lowered shoulders, after having rectified the crisis situation that arose after the losses against Germany and Slovenia.
The crucial win against Croatia on Friday ensured that Sweden had everything in their own hands.
And Japan was a snack on the way to the tougher challenge that awaits next. Sebastian Karlsson was the most goal-threatening with six full hits.
Injured duo in the stands
Now Jim Gottfridsson was back after his suspension. Daniel Pettersson and Felix Claar are still ruled out of the Olympic Games squad due to injuries and the Magdeburg duo followed the match against Japan from the stands.
It wasn't until late Sunday evening, after all group matches had been played, that it was clear who Sweden would face in the Olympic quarterfinal.
It doesn't play a big role really, we're just happy to have made it to the quarterfinal, says Tobias Thulin in Max.
Sweden will finish second, third, or fourth in their group, which means that Norway, Egypt, and Denmark are the opponents that can become relevant.
