Sweden's goal-scorer Marcus Allback has hailed his team's performance in the 2-2 draw with England on Tuesday, which saw them qualify for the last 16.
The 32-year-old Copenhagen forward equalised for De Blagula early in the second half to make the score 1-1 and turn the game totally on its head.
His 51st minute strike was the 2000th goal in the tournament's illustrious history and was something he personally relished because of two frustrating seasons at Aston Villa, in which he scored just six goals.
"It was so sweet to score a goal," he told Sportbladet. "Especially against England considering our history with them, and because my time there wasn't a success, and it was my first World Cup goal."
Coach Lars Lagerback's astute tactical changes at half time also earned praise from his team.
"We dropped back the forwards and made the side tighter," explained midfielder Kim Kallstrom.
"England didn't get as much space for their game and we could start winning the ball."
Arsenal midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg came into his own in the second period, stamping his authority on the pitch after being at the centre of the team's bust-up earlier in the competition.
"We had difficulties keeping the ball in the first half," Ljungberg added.
"In the second, I went towards the middle to keep the ball more and let us attack and put them under pressure."
