England release emotional Sven-Goran Eriksson video ahead of Finland kick off

The England national team paid tribute to the late Sven-Goran Eriksson ahead of their UEFA Nations League clash with Finland at Wembley Stadium on Thursday evening

Will Schofield Senior Sports Reporter and Amos Murphy

20:53, 10 Sep 2024

England v Finland - UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League B Group B2

England released the emotional tribute ahead of kick off(Image: (Image: Getty))

England remembered the legendary Sven-Goran Eriksson before their first match on home turf following the former Three Lions manager's death.

The Swedish tactician, who took the helm as England's first foreign boss, oversaw three big tournaments during his time. Sven passed away last month at the age of 76 after a battle with terminal cancer diagnosed earlier this year.

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Wembley saw a poignant moment as England players marked a minute's silence for the beloved coach before kicking off against Finland in the UEFA Nations League.

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The emotional tribute followed England's official X account posting a touching video homage to the ex-Man City and Lazio gaffer prior to the game.

With the words "Sven-Goran Eriksson, 1948-2024," emblazoned across it, the nearly two-minute footage relives Eriksson's highlight reel while he led England, all narrated by Sven himself, reports the Express.

What do you think of the tribute? Let us know in the comments section

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Players take part in a minute of applause in tribute to former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, who passed away on 26 August 2024, prior to the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League B Group B2 match between England and Finland at Wembley Stadium on September 10, 2024 in London, England.

Both teams observed a minutes silence ahead of kick off(Image: The FA via Getty Images)

The video captures unforgettable moments, from the iconic 5-1 thrashing of Germany in Munich to David Beckham's legendary free-kick that sent England sailing into the 2022 World Cup.

The football world mourns for Sven, a deeply adored icon of English football, yet the strategic mastermind had a heartfelt request for his fans don't harbour sadness over his demise.

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His parting words from a documentary titled after him were: "I had a good life. I think we are all scared of the day when we die, but life is about death as well."

Sven-Goran Eriksson passed away last month(Image: Getty Images)

"You have to learn to accept it for what it is. Hopefully at the end people will say, yeah, he was a good man, but everyone will not say that."

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"I hope you will remember me as a positive guy trying to do everything he could do. Don't be sorry, smile. Thank you for everything, coaches, players, the crowds, it's been fantastic. Take care of yourself and take care of your life. And live it. Bye."