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The U17 teams of IK Sirius and GIF Sundsvall played a goalless but thrilling match in the competition of Sweden’s U17 Allsvenskan Norra (0-0).

A tightly contested match between two of Sweden’s highly interesting youth academies – led by respected coaches Jonas Bylund (IK Sirius) and Erik Östling (GIF Sundsvall) – ended in a 0-0 draw, but the tactical battle provided plenty of food for thought.

Both teams lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, prioritizing structured build-up play and medium-high pressing. Under Bylund’s guidance, Sirius opted for a zonal defensive approach, staying compact and forcing Sundsvall to play around them. Meanwhile, Östling’s Sundsvall implemented a hybrid man-marking/zone-marking system, pressing aggressively in midfield to disrupt Sirius’ rhythm.

The game lacked clear-cut chances, but the defensive organization from both sides was impressive. Sirius, representing Uppsala’s biggest club and a rapidly growing talent hub, showed their usual technical, possession-based style that has become their trademark under Bylund’s leadership. Sundsvall, under Östling’s guidance, demonstrated their reputation as Norrland‘s prime talent producer with a slightly more physical approach, though still maintaining their focus on short passing combinations.

Key tactical takeaways:

• Bylund‘s Sirius showed excellent zonal defending discipline
• Östling‘s Sundsvall executed their pressing scheme effectively
• Both coaches’ emphasis on ball retention led to a tactical stalemate

The best potential players in this game:

📌 Hjalmar Mårtensson (GIF Sundsvall), centre-back born 2008.

A product of Östling’s defensive system, Hjalmar is a tactically intelligent centre-back who reads the game superbly. Despite a yellow card, his composure in possession and duel strength stood out.

📌 Zion Kennedy (GIF Sundsvall), centre-back/defensive midfielder born 2008.

A physically imposing defender who complemented Mårtensson well in Sundsvall’s backline. Showed good anticipation and aerial dominance throughout the match.

📌 Adam Gäreskog (IK Sirius), midfielder/winger born 2009.

One of Bylund’s promising talents, showing excellent technical abilities and creativity in tight spaces. His development will be interesting to follow.

📌 Melker Molin (IK Sirius), attacker born 2008.

An exciting forward who demonstrated good movements and technical skills in the final third. Showed glimpses of creativity that could unlock defenses in future matches.

This goalless draw between two well-coached sides offered valuable insights into Sweden’s youth development. Bylund‘s Sirius continues to impress with their structured approach, while Östling‘s Sundsvall remains the benchmark for northern talent production.

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