Lucas Bergvall came on as a substitute as Sweden defeated Tunisia 5-1 in their opening game of the World Cup. Yasin Ayiri and Benjamin Nygren started ahead of him in central midfield.
Spurs fans will find out an hour before the 6 pm BST kick-off time to see if Bergvall will be starting against the Netherlands tonight. The lineup Graham Potter has chosen will be announced on Sweden's official X account: @svenskfotboll.
Is Lucas Bergvall expected to play for Sweden tonight?
Ayiri had a very good game against Tunisia, scoring twice. Therefore, he will unlikely be dropped. However, there is a chance that Bergvall could start ahead of Nygren, who he replaced as a substitute.
Sweden's central midfield depth chart at the World Cup
Player | Club | Caps | Current squad role |
|---|---|---|---|
Lucas Bergvall | Tottenham | 11 | Substitute |
Benjamin Nygren | Celtic | 12 | Starter |
Yasin Ayari | Brighton | 22 | Starter |
Besfort Zeneli | Union Saint-Gilloise | 8 | Squad player |
Jesper Karlstrom is Sweden's holding midfielder, with their four central players competing to play ahead of him. Ayari and Nyrgen got the nod against Tunisia, but Bergvall is challenging for a starting spot. Zeneli is more of a backup option for Potter.
Why Lucas Bergvall's role matters for Tottenham supporters
Bergvall missed much of last season with an ankle injury. The World Cup this summer gives their midfielder the chance for some much-needed game time. Spurs had a difficult campaign, in which they almost got relegated. Therefore, the World Cup is a chance for Bergvall to get his confidence back.
How Lucas Bergvall has performed for Sweden recently
- Bergvall has played in all five of Sweden's games this year, which included their playoff victories against Ukraine and Poland
- The Spurs player set up Ayari's second goal against Tunisia
- The midfielder is yet to score in 11 caps for his country
Sweden team news and predicted lineup
Due to his performance against Tunisia, there is a high chance that Potter could start Bergvall against the Netherlands.
Sweden predicted lineup: Nordfeldt; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelof; Karlstrom; Bernhardsson, Bergvall, Ayari, Gudmundsson; Gyokeres, Isak
What to watch for if Bergvall plays tonight
After getting an assist in the match with Tunisia, Bergvall will want more goal contributions. However, he will be facing tougher opposition. The Netherlands has a solid midfield, which consists of Frenkie de Jong, Ryan Gravenberch, and Tijjani Reijnders.
Bergvall will also be expected to do his fair share of defending against the Netherlands. They have a great front three of Crysencio Summerville, Donyell Marlen, and Cody Gakpo. Bergvall will have to be disciplined and may have to sit alongside Karlstom in defensive midfield.
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