May 8, 2002

Magnus Hedman has identified Argentina's Hernan Crespo as a key threat to Sweden's chances at the World Cup.

The Swedish stopper is full of confidence ahead of the tournament, but has pinpointed the Lazio striker as the opponent he will be watching most keenly.

Although the Coventry City goalkeeper concedes that England's Division One is a world away from the World Cup, he knows his international pedigree will stand him in good stead.

The 29-year-old is Sweden's first choice ahead of Magnus Kihlstedt and Andreas Isaksson.

And he will be the all-important last-line of defence in Sweden's group games against England, Nigeria and Argentina.

If Sweden are to progress from the group stage Hedman will have to repel a host of world-class strikers including Michael Owen and Kanu.

But it is Crespo who he is most uncomfortable about facing.

"I know the least about him so I'll have to pick him," Hedman admitted.

"But if I can beat Ronaldo in a one-on-one I can do it with anyone.

"You have to be a bit special as a goalkeeper. You need ego and strong belief in yourself.

"And as a goalkeeper you have to try and stand up as long as possible.

"I remember I did that with Ronaldo, I remained standing and chased after him when he went to my right and I managed to block his shot with a sliding tackle."

BBC Sport Online