Talented Sweden side pose tough test for Vera Pauw's Ireland

Everywhere across their squad, the Swedes possess depth. From Ballon D’Or contenders to the striker recruited by Champions League winners, Ireland will be facing quality in abundance

Goalkeeper Eve Badana during a Republic of Ireland training session at the FAI National Training Centre in Abbotstown, Dublin. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Sweden’s biggest grumble during their press activities for Thursday's World Cup qualifier against Ireland was their paucity of Ballon D’Or candidates.

After a spectacular year, when they ended the 44-match unbeaten run of world champions USA on their way to the silver medal at the Olympics, the sense of being short-changed on the 20-player shortlist was evident.