The Scandinavians have started off on the right foot in Russia after a 1-0 opening victory against South Korea last Monday. “It was a very important win for us. Especially, because Germany lost on Sunday”, said Augustinsson. The SV Werder left-back played the full 90 on his World Cup debut and gave a solid performance. “We want to progress through the group”, stated the Green-White number five to WERDER.DE. With a win on Saturday, Augustinsson and Co. would do exactly that with one game to play.
However, Germany are a serious obstacle standing before the Swedes. “It will be a very difficult game. They have a fantastic team”, clarifies the full-back. Particularly, the winning mentality that the DFB XI normally have in abundance yet distinctly lacked during their 1-0 loss to Mexico. “They always give 100 percent, show a strong mentality and have enormous quality, which they seem to consistently carry through to big tournaments”, asserts the 24-year-old. “Normally they are plain and simply a machine. They always win the opening games and impress during the groups phase.”
Germany’s false start encourages Sweden, but what also helps is the fact that Augustinsson and Emil Forsberg know many of the German players well. Ludde has been wearing the Green-White jersey for a year now. “I play in Germany, I know the players and their playing style”, said the Swedish defender. His knowledge will be put into practise tonight as Sweden pursue their second win of the tournament. “The Germans will be intent on victory. So we need to compose ourselves. Each one of us must give 100 percent and play at the peak of their powers” affirmed Augustinsson.
