TODAY’S GAMES AT A GLANCE : WORLD CUP USA ’94 / THE FIRST ROUND : TODAY’S GAMES AT A GLANCE

GROUP B at Silverdome, Pontiac, Mich.

Sweden vs. Russia

* TIME: 4:30 p.m. PDT.

* TV: ESPN, Univision, KSCI (Russian).

* KEY MATCHUPS: Both teams play a tough, European style, clogging the midfield and waiting patiently for opportunities. At least that was the scouting report. Inexplicably, Russia changed its style in a 2-0 drubbing by Brazil, switching to more man-to-man coverage. Swedish Coach Tommy Svensson said he would welcome a similar Russian strategy against his team.

Sweden is a team of few stars, forward Martin Dahlin being the exception, and prefers to operate in group attacks. Russia, because of mass player defections, has lost considerable striking power. Forward Sergei Yuran is its best offensive weapon. In many ways, the teams are similar. “There will be a big battle in the midfield, that’s for sure,” said Anders Limpar, a Swedish midfielder.

* OUTLOOK: Having not yet played Brazil in the group, Sweden is in no position to blow this game. Henrik Larsson, who set up the tying goal against Cameroon, did not practice Thursday because of a sore knee but is expected to be ready today.

* OUTCOME: This game should be played close to the vest, unless the Russians figure they have nothing to lose and unveil another attacking scheme. Sweden squeezes out a close one, 2-1, and Russia packs.