The English were made to work much harder for their victory over Sweden. Andy Carroll got the English off to a great start, heading a brilliant cross from Steven Gerrard in the 23rd minute to the back of the net. Then England appeared in self-destruct mode, as Olof Mellberg wreaked havoc and eventually put the Swedes up 2-1.
England were determined, however, and impact substitute Theo Walcott changed the game with his introduction. He got the equalizer in the 64th minute, and set up Danny Welbeck's back-heeled winner to finish the second round of games on a huge high.
While today's wins were important for both nations, the next round of games will be pivotal for each side's hopes of going deep in the tournament. The round three games (England vs Ukraine, France vs Sweden) of Group D will determine not only who advances to the knockout stages, but who will in all likelihood face the daunting task of playing Spain in the quarterfinals.
One would assume France will go all out for a win against Sweden, who are now playing with nothing to lose. But the interesting tie to watch will be the England vs Ukraine match. Ukraine need a win over the English to advance. While a draw in the match will see England advance, it is immensely important that they do not settle for the draw. England can win the group, and will most likely avoid Spain in the knockout stages (until the final), with a big win over the Ukrainians.
The Spanish are going for their 3rd straight major title, and France and England will want no part of them in the quarterfinals.
It will be very interesting to see whether England go for it in their final match, or simply play not to lose. Will they play to meet expectations, and just get out of the group? Or will they play to give themselves a chance to greatly exceed expectations later on in this tournament?
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