Superb coaching, good goalkeeping, resolute defending, poor play by Sweden and luck, earned the Soca Warriors a memorable point in this Nation's first effort at the World Cup.
Now I know fans are excited and probably creating fantasy scenarios of qualifying for the second round but we need to temper that with reality. The truth is Trinidad and Tobago had very few attacking opportunities with only one brilliant effort from distance by Cornell Glen and a fierce drive by Edwards that flew straight to the Swedish goalkeeper.

The victory, oops, draw, was won by a determined defensive structure that re-proves what a coaching miracle Beenhakker has provided. We first saw the signs of a proper defensive unit in the away match against Mexico when Trinidad and Tobago battled for near 80 mins before an error spoilt the result.
Here, in Germany, the structure was evident, although Sweden had clearly learnt from the mistakes against Czech Republic to attack our left-back. They targeted Avery John at every opportunity and in the end it paid off for them as the left-back became the first player sent off at the World Cup Finals 2006.
Some may dispute the referee's decision but the second yellow card was for intent, because he clearly got the ball.

Sweden had massive amounts of possession but few genuine opportunities to score, the best of which were a wonderful volley from Ibrahimovich which struck Hislop rather that him saving it; and a close range shot from Allback that was brilliantly saved by Shaka.

So a point then, and a crucial one at that because it gives the Soca Warriors a real chance at the second round. I don't expect our boys to beat England or even earn a draw, but a victory against Paraguay seems more and more possible.
I'll appreciate your comments.

Labels: Sweden vs Trinidad and Tobago, Trinidad at the World Cup