Sweden capture UEFA's U-21 crown with PK win over Portugal

By foxsports
Published

PRAGUE --

Sweden beat Portugal 4-3 in a penalty shootout on Tuesday to win the European Under-21 Championship for the first time.

After the match finished 0-0 following extra-time, Sweden goalkeeper Patrik Carlgren denied Ricardo Esgaio and William Carvalho from the spot.

Portugal captain Sergio Oliveira hit the crossbar from a free kick in the game's best chance after eight minutes and his side dominated possession until late in the second half.

Sweden played defensively, but stepped up the pace late. John Guidetti had the Swedes' best chance in the 86th minute when he failed to beat goalkeeper Jose Sa in a one-on-one.

The two sides had drawn 1-1 in the group stage.

Both finalists, along with semifinalists Denmark and Germany, have qualified for the 2016 Olympic tournament in Rio de Janeiro.