Capello: Ibrahimovic absence crucial

Russia boss Fabio Capello believes Zlatan Ibrahimovic could have made a difference to the outcome of his side's 1-1 Euro 2016 qualification draw with Sweden in Stockholm.

A heel injury kept the PSG striker on the sidelines as Sweden fought back from a goal down to secure a 1-1 draw at the Friends Arena.

However, Capello admitted he was relieved his Russia side did not have to face Sweden's all-time record international goalscorer.

“I know Zlatan very well and I know what he can do," the 68-year-old told Uefa.com.

“Zlatan is one of the three best players in the world. He can change the game, score and make assists. Defenders always have problems with him.

“But we are talking about one player, it wasn't easy just because he wasn't on the pitch. Sweden are a good team.”

The visitors took an early lead through Aleksandr Kokorin before Ola Toivonen’s equaliser shortly after half-time left both teams unbeaten after two games in Group G.

Despite relinquishing a lead, Capello said he was pleased with the performance of his players.

 “We played really well and had a lot of chances to score. All the players performed well," he added.

“The attacking players Kokorin and Artem Dzyuba played well and most importantly they were quick to help out in midfield, on the defensive side of the game.”

/Goal.Com/