Zlatan Ibrahimovic: I've retired nation of Denmark
Wednesday 18 November 2015 13:27, UK
Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he has sent Denmark into retirement after scoring twice to secure Sweden's place in Euro 2016.
Ibrahimovic's brace helped Sweden secure a 4-3 aggregate victory over their Scandinavian neighbours after a 2-2 draw in their play-off second leg in Copenhagen.
"It was great to do this here in Denmark," said Ibrahimovic, who had been rumoured to be on the brink of retiring from the international game had his side failed to progress.
"With the idea that this was supposed to be my retirement, I've pushed their whole country into retirement."
The Paris Saint-Germain striker scored on 19 minutes with a delicate finish from Kim Kallstrom's corner and settled the affair 14 minutes from time with a stunning free-kick from distance.
Denmark, who knocked out Sweden from the 2010 World Cup play-offs six years ago, pulled two goals back but fell short.
Ibrahimovic hinted that next summer's tournament in France is likely to be his last before hanging up his international boots.
"If I have to finish with a Euros, then that's destiny. Thanks for all the support and see you in France," added Ibrahimovic, who has now scored 62 goals in 111 appearances for Sweden.
"A lot of people complain that I'm old and weak, but it doesn't look like that."
Following the defeat Denmark's veteran coach Morten Olsen decided to call it a day after 15 years at the national team's helm.
"I've told the players that the Federation and I have agreed that it would make no sense for me to continue," said the 66-year-old, who previously won titles with Brondby in Denmark and Ajax in the Netherlands.
"The last few months have been frustrating. I couldn't find consistency either in our performances or our line-up. I take full responsibility."
