Both Kristian Karlsson, reigning world champion in doubles, and Truls Möregårdh, reigning vice world champion in singles, have advanced to the quarterfinals in Europe Top 16 in table tennis.
Karlsson defeated the Russian Kirill Skatchkov convincingly - 4-0 in sets against the 46th in the world.
- It was a taste start, he is a tough opponent so I am very happy, says Kristian Karlsson, 28 in the world, to SVT Sport.
How did his actions at the table differ from before? Given the invasion of Ukraine.
- He is a happy and playful guy, and he joked now too.
Then I do not know what it's really like inside.
I think most of the Russians here are concerned.
"Another Truls I Meet Now"
In the arena Salle du Pierrier in Montreux, Switzerland, Truls Möregårdh also won his round of 16.
The 19-year-old, who was 77th in the world before the World Cup silver in November but who is now ranked 18, won 4-1 in a set against left-handed Frenchman Emmanuel Lebesson who became European Champion in 2016.
And in the quarter-finals of Europe's top 16, which will be decided later tonight, Karlsson and Möregårdh will meet for the third time so far.
And they each have a victory.
- It will be fun, Swedish matches are something we will hopefully get used to.
We have a dangerous squad, says Kristian Karlsson.
How do you think it goes?
- It was a very long time since we met.
It was at the Swedish Championships, the phase it was four years ago.
He's a good friend, we respect each other.
There's another Truls I meet now, and there's another Kristian waiting for him.
I look forward to him now so far in a prestigious tournament.