Sweden game proves a hit on remarkable night

Supponor’s Digital Billboard Replacement technology was seen by millions of fans around the world on a remarkable footballing night in Stockholm.

Sweden beat England 4-2 in an international friendly – a match which marked the official opening of the Friends Arena.

Supponor’s DBRLive was used on two high cameras in the new stadium with half of the stadium billboards set up to deliver differentiated advertising in the international broadcast feed.

Countries outside of Sweden, including England where the match was shown on live on ITV, saw different perimeter boards to those actually in the Friends Arena.

It was the latest in a line of England matches for Supponor whose technology was used at Italy-England in Berne earlier this season, as well as at Wembley matches throughout 2012.

And to add to the interest, the Sweden-England match proved even more remarkable after Zlatan Ibrahimovich scored all four of the home country’s goals – including the last one which pundits are calling “the best goal ever”.

The Paris Saint-German striker hit a stunning bicycle kick from 30 yards, with his back to the goal, combining magnificent technique with unerring accuracy. The goal has already become an internet sensation and is being replayed on broadcast news around the world.

Tony Ragan, Chief Commercial Officer, Supponor, was at the game and said: “Clearly our focus was on ensuring our technology delivered the best possible results for the advertisers and the rights holder, the Swedish FA. But it was a privilege to see such an incredible goal too. It topped a great night for us.”