POTTER INSISTS SWEDEN WILL LEARN AFTER NETHERLANDS HAMMERING

Sweden coach Graham Potter says his side will “learn a lot” from their heavy 5-1 defeat to the Netherlands in Houston, but admitted the performance showed a lack of belief after a promising start to the tournament.

Sweden, who had opened their campaign with a 5-1 win over Tunisia, were brought sharply back to reality as they fell 4-0 behind, with Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo both scoring twice in a dominant Dutch display.

Anthony Elanga managed a consolation goal, but Crysencio Summerville completed the rout as Ronald Koeman’s side ran riot.

“We have to congratulate them, and I think we’ll learn a lot from the game,” Potter said.

“The scoreline affects you. We became a bit passive then. We didn’t quite have the belief in what we wanted to do.”

He added: “That was a disappointment. It was a learning point for us, of course, we’ll be better for it.”

Despite the defeat, Potter insisted the scoreline was harsh, pointing to Sweden’s 20 shots and improved second-half display, though defensive issues proved costly throughout.

Sweden now turn their attention to a crucial clash against Japan as they look to secure progression to the last 32.