Wernbloom double fires Sweden past Hungary

Pontus Wernbloom scored his first two international goals to ensure Sweden got off to a winning start in UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying Group E against Hungary.

After a goalless first half, Wernbloom turned in Sebastian Larsson's cross on 51 minutes to put the home side ahead, before making the game safe with 17 minutes to play. Sweden did not have things all their own way, however, with Anders Svensson (33), Andreas Isaksson (46) and winger Johan Elmander (49) all forced off with injuries.

Sweden set out as new coach Erik Hamrén had promised – in attacking mode. Ola Toivonen and Emir Bajrami were both sent clear by captain Zlatan Ibrahimović, only for Gábor Király to block Toivonen's shot with his legs and Bajrami to miss the target from close range.

Ibrahimović was listed as Sweden's lone striker in the team sheet but roamed the pitch at will, as often in a playmaking position as a finishing one. Before the first half was over he had two good scoring chances, both of which were sent wide. Meanwhile, Krisztián Vadócz enjoyed Hungary's best chance with a powerful volley from 35 metres that flew narrowly wide.

Sweden lost influential midfielder Svensson shortly after the half-hour and when the teams came out after the break their second substitution had already been made, Isaksson making way for Johan Wiland after straining his groin with his last kick of the first half. Further misery soon followed when Elmander went off in the 48th minute, following a clash of heads with Zsolt Laczkó.

Larsson came on for Elmander and was swiftly involved, crossing for Wernbloom to open the scoring. The AZ Alkmaar midfielder then made the points safe when he tapped in the rebound after heading Kim Källström's corner against the crossbar. Sweden will next be in action at home against San Marino on Tuesday, when Hungary host Moldova.