England are through to the semi-finals of the World Cup after beating Sweden 2-0 in a dramatic encounter at the Samara Arena.

Harry Maguire opened the scoring for England - heading the ball home from an Ashley Young corner half-an-hour into the game.

It was another typical England set piece and Maguire's first international goal.

Despite that, it was a jittery first half with England coming close several times. Just before the half-time whistle blew Raheem Sterling twice had the ball deep in Sweden's territory with little or no defence in front of him, but managed to squander both chances.

In the second half, Sweden looked dangerous as England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford was forced to produce a stunning save after Marcus Berg's towering header looked destined for the back of the net.

But England pressed home their advantage in the 58th minute with a Dele Alli header following an attack that seemed to involve most of England's front line.

Sweden's response was never far away as Pickford was forced once more to make a quick reaction save after two close strikes from Sweden's Viktor Claesson.

Marcus Berg had another chance in the 71st minute with a shot Pickford just managed to get a finger on, pushing the ball over the bar.

It was confirmation of the brilliant game the England number one was having.

Source: Sky News

BDST: 1023 HRS, JUL 7, 2018
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