Freddie Ljungberg wants Sweden to avoid becoming embroiled in a physical battle against Northern Ireland.
Group F's top two meet at Windsor Park on Wednesday looking to take a step nearer to reaching the finals of Euro 2008.
Sweden captain Ljungberg is expecting a tough test against Northern Ireland and has urged his team-mates to play their usual game.
"You cannot go running around telling people to keep cool," said Ljungberg.
"You have to be aware of what might happen before you go on the pitch. It is important we try not to over-react.
"If it turns into a match where it is about struggling, fighting and tackling, it will not be to our benefit.
"We do not want to be involved in this type of game. We need to keep the ball on the ground at all times and move it quickly."
Ljungberg is also hoping that, having seen Northern Ireland beat Spain earlier in the qualifying programme, Lawrie Sanchez's men will have no surprises for Sweden.
He added: "Northern Ireland are well organised and work very hard.
"They have achieved some big results, beating England and Spain, so we know what they are capable of.
"Northern Ireland have turned it around recently and have surprised a lot of people."