Sweden vs. Germany, Olympics 2016: Time, TV schedule and team news for women’s gold medal game

Very few people have been a fan of Sweden’s style at the Olympics, but no one can deny that it’s been effective. They’ve used a fantastic defense to get past the United States and Brazil, and they have a chance to win their first- ever gold medal in soccer on Friday. Standing in their way is the No. 2 ranked team in the world and the reigning European champions, Germany.

Sweden had to endure a barrage of shots against Brazil in the semifinal, but their tightly packed defense ensured that only a small percentage of them were actually dangerous. They took Brazil to a shootout despite generating just three shots in regulation play themselves and won it, thanks to some great saves by Hedvig Lindahl.

Germany got some redemption in their semifinal, defeating Canada. They were outplayed by the Canadians in a group stage loss, but showed their quality in the rematch with two excellent finishes in a 2-0 victory.

The game kicks off at 4:30 p.m. ET. You can catch it on NBCSN, and watch online at NBCOlympics.com.

Key player: Dzenifer Marozsan

While Marozsan has been one of the world’s top midfielders for years, she’s yet to turn in a signature performance at the World Cup or Olympics. She was injured for last year’s World Cup semifinal loss to the United States, and once again, an injury threatens to keep her out of a big match. She was substituted at halftime in the semifinals and is a game-time decision. Germany will need her at her best if they’re going to break down Sweden’s deep defense, as they’ve struggled to create chances against great defensive teams without her.

Recent history

These teams played twice in 2015, at the Algarve Cup. Sweden won the first game 4-2, but lost in the third place match, 2-1. The last big tournament game between these teams was at the Euro 2013, when Marozsan scored the winner in the semifinal before Germany went on to win the tournament.

Match date/time: Friday, 4:30 p.m. ET

Venue: Maracana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

TV: NBCSN

Listings for other countries at Live Soccer TV.