After a strong upswing, Blågult could finally roll over the United Kingdom with 78–59 – largely thanks to the star Pelle Larsson.
Sweden took command directly and controlled the match, but the misses were lined up during the first half. Despite a clear playing advantage, it took a while before the distance on the scoreboard grew.
Criticism of the star
SVT expert Nick Rajacic called Sweden's inability in front of the basket a "parody".
Rajacic also directed criticism at Pelle Larsson during the opening. The NBA star responded after the break. With 23 points, he became the best scorer and match winner when Sweden secured the necessary triumph.
It's just nice when you take so many shots, that some go in, says Pelle Larsson to SVT after the match.
The victory means that the European Championship hope remains alive. Four teams advance from the six-team strong group, and right now Sweden is just above the line. The next test will be Montenegro – before the group stage is completed against Lithuania.
Finally, we got the first win and now it's just a matter of continuing on this track, says Simon Birgander.
Rest day on Sunday
Birgander missed the match against Germany due to illness. So did Pelle Larsson.
I lay in the hotel room all day yesterday and didn't feel so well, says Larsson.
Tomorrow, the sick ones will get a rest day to recover properly.
It feels good, I feel like normal. I've gotten some pills and stuff, I'll see how it feels tomorrow. Luckily, we don't have a match, says Larsson.
