Victory for Stoke City’s Goalkeeper with His National Team
• Stoke City’s goalkeeper kept a clean sheet in the second game of the international break
• Players now return to Stoke City to prepare for EFL Championship matches
By Oscar Cortes
For Viktor Johansson, this was a highly positive match, especially coming off a tough game against Slovakia where he couldn’t keep a clean sheet. That match was challenging, and Sweden ended up with a 2-2 draw, in which Johansson didn't look entirely comfortable.
However, in this second match of the international break, Johansson appeared much more confident between the posts, largely thanks to a strong defensive performance, helping Sweden secure victory in the UEFA Nations League.
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Viktor Johansson Had Little Work in This Match
Stoke City’s goalkeeper once again started for Sweden, continuing to represent the club with pride. He is becoming a beloved figure for the Swedish national team, having been one of the standout performers in recent matches. In this game against Estonia, Sweden secured a 3-0 victory, demonstrating a near-perfect attacking display. On the defensive side, Johansson had very little to do as Estonia posed almost no threat.
Estonia managed only four shots, all of which were off target, meaning Johansson did not have to make any saves during the match. However, he completed 17 touches and made 17 passes, achieving a 100% passing accuracy.
He also successfully completed two long balls, showcasing his excellent distribution skills and ability to contribute to Sweden’s build-up play. While he wasn’t tested much, Johansson’s composure with the ball at his feet was impressive, reaffirming his promise as a goalkeeper with a bright future at just 26 years old.
Now, Johansson returns to Stoke City, where he will be under the guidance of head coach Narcis Pelach, as they prepare for the upcoming EFL Championship match. Stoke City will host Norwich City, aiming for a win to earn crucial points in the league table. With Pelach leading the way, the team is on a more positive trajectory, hoping to overcome the early challenges of the season.