Striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic was substituted at halftime due to a swollen left knee after scoring for Sweden in a 2-1 loss to Spain.

Coach Lars Lagerback said he expects Ibrahimovic to play in the last group stage match against Russia even though the Inter striker said the injury is getting worse.

“I started to feel it in the knee already after five to 10 minutes,” Ibrahimovic said. “We decided on a substitution because we didn’t want to risk aggravating it.”

Ibrahimovic has complained of swelling in his knee since the start of the tournament.

“I just have to keep going, but it’s clearly gotten worse,” he said.

Lagerback said he didn’t believe the injury was serious.

“He could have continued a couple more minutes for sure, but after a brief talk we decided that this was better than risking to aggravate it, keeping in mind that we have one more match,” the coach said. “I’m counting on him being able to play in the next match.”

That will be against Russia on Wednesday.

Ibrahimovic equalised for Sweden in the first half with his second goal of the tournament, set up by a cross from fullback Fredrik Stoor. The Swedish attack lost its edge when he was replaced by Markus Rosenberg after the break, allowing Spain to take control of the match.

“I don’t know if we’re too dependent on him, but he’s a top-class player,” Lagerback said of his star striker. “Of course I think we have better chances with Zlatan Ibrahimovic on the field than without.”

Spain coach Luis Aragones also praised the lanky striker.

“Ibrahimovic is a player who can do anything,” Aragones said. “At times it seems he’s doing nothing, but when the moment comes he can score.”