WHEN England play Sweden in their opening World Cup game tomorrow, it is not only on the pitch where the two nations will clash.

The game will have a special significance for the landlord and landlady of one North-East pub.

Stan Huggins, of the Pennyweight pub in Darlington, and Swedish partner Ninna Sjoberg could not believe it when the two countries were paired.

Each is confident their home team will triumph in a match which could prove crucial to both of their World Cup hopes.

Sunderland season ticket holder Stan said: "Ninna's father phoned me from Sweden as soon as the draw was made and said we had no chance, so I've got a bet on with him for 100 kroner. I'm sure we'll qualify for the next stage."

Ninna believes Sweden have history on their side, as England have not beaten them since 1968. She said: "Of all the countries in the world, we had to be in the same group. But I'm not scared, because it's quite a while since they beat us."

The couple will watch the match in the pub and say their rivalry will remain friendly.

Stan's prediction: 2-1 to England. Ninna's prediction: 2-1 to Sweden.