Swedish fans still in party mood

Even though their side was eliminated after their 3-2 loss to England on Friday, Swedish fans are still revelling in the party atmosphere at Euro 2012.

They have made a little bit of Kiev their own for the past few days.

Thousands of fans have set up a temporary base on Trukhaniv Island in the middle of Kiev’s Dnieper River.

Aptly named ‘Camp Sweden’, tents line the woods and sandy beaches, and Sweden’s national flag decorates the landscape.

Camp organiser Ingo Soderland explained the idea behind the concept.

“The whole idea of being here is very simple, when you go to the game with the Swedish national team, they will the game and get three points, and for that we will give the best support we can.”

The President of the Swedish FA, Karl-Erik Nilsson, also visited the camp and was impressed with what he saw.

“I think it is absolutely fantastic, even if the Swedish football team is not the best in Europe, the Swedish supporters are really in the top class of European supporters,” he said.

“I think there are about 20 to 25 thousand Swedish supporters here and they are creating a marvellous atmosphere in the camp, in the city, but of course also during the matches. We are really impressed.”

Despite national pride being the only reward for Sweden when they take on France on Tuesday, their fans refuse to let their early exit dampen their spirit.