This piece is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration of leading media outlets from the 48 nations that have qualified. As the tournament approaches, previews are being released daily from three different countries starting on June 11.
Sweden’s Rocky Road to Qualification
Sweden’s qualification attempts for the World Cup began with dismal results, securing only a solitary point from their opening four matches under Jon Dahl Tomasson. In October 2025, following a disappointing 1-0 loss to Kosovo, the Danish coach was dismissed.
Graham Potter took the helm next, a coach renowned for his success with Östersund from 2011 to 2017, where he elevated the team from the fourth tier to the Allsvenskan, clinching a cup victory and famously defeating Arsenal in the Europa League.
With Potter at the forefront, the team shifted back to the traditional Swedish approach, emphasizing a solid defense and quick counterattacks. Initially favoring a back four, he opted for a 5-3-2 formation during the playoffs to prioritize defensive stability.
Sweden: Group F Fixtures
June 14 vs. Tunisia, Monterrey (8 PM local, June 15 3 AM BST, June 15 noon AEST)
June 20 vs. Netherlands, Houston (noon local, 6 PM BST, June 21 3 AM AEST)
June 25 vs. Japan, Dallas (6 PM local, June 26 12 AM BST, June 26 9 AM AEST)
Thanks to the Nations League, Sweden found a way back into the World Cup qualifying process, showcasing a remarkable performance against Ukraine in the semi-finals with a 3-1 victory, highlighted by a hat-trick from Viktor Gyökeres. The final against Poland was a nail-biter, but Gyökeres again proved his worth by netting the decisive goal in the 88th minute, securing a thrilling 3-2 win.
Potter expressed his joy after the match, stating,
“It’s hard to explain, hard to describe. Just an incredible evening, just so proud to be part of that and obviously proud to experience it. It was just the best night I’ve had in football. Incredible, like I was having some sort of out-of-body experience. I’m looking at the goal and suddenly all our bench is running and you’re thinking: ‘Am I here?’ I’m just grateful to be part of that.”
Despite only achieving two points from six group matches, Sweden managed to qualify for the World Cup, now gearing up to face Tunisia, Netherlands, and Japan, fueled by the Potter effect.
However, they will be without captain Dejan Kulusevski, whose absence will be greatly felt in North America. Questions also loom over Alexander Isak’s current form and fitness, though he did manage to score in a concerning 3-1 defeat to Norway on June 1 after coming off the bench.
The Coach: Graham Potter
In October 2025, Graham Potter candidly expressed his desire to coach Sweden in an interview with Fotbollskanalen, saying,
“I have feelings for Sweden. I love the country and I love Swedish football. Coaching the national team would be an incredible opportunity for me, absolutely.”
Just days later, he was appointed head coach. Despite not securing victories in his first two matches, the Swedish FA was so impressed with his vision that they extended his contract through 2030 in March. Potter’s fluency in Swedish makes him an ideal fit after navigating challenging tenures with Chelsea and West Ham.
Star Player: Viktor Gyökeres
Alexander Isak made headlines last year by becoming the most expensive transfer in Premier League history when he joined Liverpool from Newcastle for £125 million. Yet, the real star for the national team is Viktor Gyökeres. After a slow start at his new club, he has recently found his rhythm, contributing four of Sweden’s six goals in the playoffs. His popularity soared following a late goal against Poland, inspiring fans across the nation to recreate his goal celebration inspired by Bane, a character portrayed by Tom Hardy in The Dark Knight Rises.
Player to Watch: Gustaf Lagerbielke
Beyond Celtic’s Benjamin Nygren, Gustaf Lagerbielke is another player who could play a pivotal role for Sweden in North America. The Braga defender was instrumental in the playoff final against Poland, scoring a powerful header and effectively neutralizing Robert Lewandowski. Adding to the intrigue is his status as a baron and 254th in line to the Swedish throne. Rumors of a move to a major league this summer circulate, and a standout performance at the World Cup would certainly bolster those prospects.
Unsung Hero: Jesper Karlström
For Sweden to thrive this summer, they must contend with the technical prowess of the Netherlands and the spirited approach of Japan. Jesper Karlström, captain of Serie A team Udinese, is poised to be a crucial figure. A late bloomer, he took time to establish himself at Djurgården before moving to Polish club Lech Poznan. Karlström has been open about his past struggles with gambling addiction but credits both his family and Djurgården for helping him overcome it. As a deep-lying midfielder, he brings stability and composure to the field, which will be essential in North America, especially with younger players like Yasin Ayari and Lucas Bergvall alongside him.
Probable Starting XI
What to Expect from Fans at Games
Swedish fans are known for their enthusiastic support, often showing up in large numbers at tournaments. The Blågult (blue and yellow) supporters are typically friendly and enjoy engaging with rival fans. Their anthem, “Kanna på,” humorously references the ever-flowing beer pitchers and boasts, “We are coming with 100,000 men.” While another Viking invasion may not be on the horizon, a significant yellow-and-blue presence is anticipated at the World Cup.
Historical Context: Sweden and the US
Back in 2017, President Trump made headlines with a comment referencing Sweden, saying,
“Look what happened in Sweden last night.”
This statement came in the context of discussing immigration issues and associated violence, yet it was quickly clarified that nothing significant had occurred in Sweden that night. The Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet later summarized the events of the day:
- Owe Thörnqvist, a famous singer, experienced technical difficulties during rehearsals.
- A man set himself on fire in a central Stockholm plaza.
- Road closures were noted in northern Sweden due to severe weather conditions.
These incidents highlight the absurdity of the claims made by Trump.
