Sweden was held to a 0-0 draw by Albania in World Cup qualifying on Saturday.
The Swedes dominated possession and chances but couldn't break down the Albanian defense in the Group 1 match.
Despite being tightly marked, Sweden forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic hit the post in the 17th minute and then had a shot saved by goalkeeper Arjan Beqaj in the 58th.
Sweden exerted more pressure in the second half with Olof Mellberg shooting wide from 10 meters (yards) in the 63rd.
"It was very hard to win against a team with nine players in defense," Sweden captain Henrik Larsson said.
Albania had a few chances to score. Forward Hamdi Salihi missed from close range in the 32nd after a cross from Ervin Skela, while midfielder Jahmir Hyka's 20-meter (yard) shot caused goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson some difficulty.
Albania coach Arie Haan said his team had earned "a very valuable point" as he considered Sweden to be one of the best teams in the world.
On Wednesday, Albania hosts Malta and Sweden is at home to Hungary.
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Lineups:
Albania: Arjan Beqaj, Armend Dallku, Kristi Vangjeli, Debatik Curri, Elvin Beqiri, Lorik Cana, Altin Lala, Klodian Duro, Ervin Skela (Admir Teli, 83), Jahmir Hyka, Hamdi Salihi (Besart Berisha, 75).
Sweden: Andreas Isaksson, Petter Hansson, Daniel Majstorovic, Olof Mellberg, Mikael Nilsson, Oscar Wendt (Fredrik Stoor, 78), Tobias Linderoth (Sebastian Larsson, 6), Daniel Andersson, Kim Kallstrom (Samuel Holmen, 84), Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Henrik Larsson.
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/09/06/sports/EU-SOC-Albania-Sweden.php
