Sweden secured an improbable qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in October 2025, following a tumultuous qualifying campaign that saw Jon Dahl Tomasson replaced by Graham Potter. The team will now face Tunisia, Netherlands, and Japan in the group stage, carrying the momentum of a dramatic playoff victory under their new manager.
The Potter Effect: From Crisis to Qualification
Sweden’s World Cup dreams appeared to be fading early in their qualification journey, with the team managing only one point from their initial four matches under Jon Dahl Tomasson. A decisive 1-0 loss to Kosovo in October 2025 proved to be the final straw, leading to Tomasson’s dismissal.
The appointment of Graham Potter, a coach with prior success in Sweden at Östersund, marked a significant shift in the team’s approach. Potter, who famously guided Östersund from the fourth tier to the Allsvenskan and into the Europa League, instilled a renewed focus on traditional Swedish footballing values: a robust defense and effective counter-attacking strategy.
Despite initially favoring a back four, Potter opted for a 5-3-2 formation in the crucial playoff matches, emphasizing defensive solidity to keep opponents at bay. This tactical flexibility proved instrumental in their journey back into the World Cup qualification process via the Nations League.
Dramatic Playoff Triumph
In the World Cup playoffs, Sweden delivered an impressive performance against Ukraine in the semi-final, securing a 3-1 victory fueled by a hat-trick from star striker Viktor Gyökeres. The final against Poland was a tense affair, with Poland largely controlling the game.
However, Gyökeres once again emerged as the hero, netting a dramatic 88th-minute winner to clinch a thrilling 3-2 victory. “It’s hard to explain, hard to describe,” a jubilant Potter stated after the match. “Just an incredible evening, just so proud to be part of that and obviously proud to experience it.”
This playoff success meant Sweden qualified for the World Cup despite accumulating just two points from six games in their initial group stage. Their current group opponents are Tunisia, Netherlands, and Japan, with the team now aiming to progress beyond the group stages.
Key Players and Squad Concerns
The absence of captain Dejan Kulusevski due to injury is a significant blow, given his immense influence on the team. His creativity and leadership will be sorely missed in North America.
Furthermore, there are considerable question marks surrounding the form and fitness of forward Alexander Isak. Despite a record-breaking transfer to Liverpool, his first season at Anfield was challenging, and his current national team form remains a point of concern.
The Coach: Graham Potter’s Swedish Connection
Graham Potter’s move to the Swedish national team was preceded by a public expression of his affection for the country and its football. In an October 2025 interview, he stated, “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 after this interview, Potter was appointed. Despite a winless start in his first two games, the Swedish FA showed strong faith in him, offering a contract extension through to 2030 in March. Potter’s fluency in Swedish and his positive experience in the country made the role a perfect fit after challenging spells at Chelsea and West Ham.
Star Power and Emerging Talents
Viktor Gyökeres has firmly established himself as Sweden’s talisman, particularly after his decisive playoff performances. His late winner against Poland has further cemented his popularity, with his goal celebration, inspired by Tom Hardy’s Bane from The Dark Knight Rises, becoming a viral sensation.
Another player to watch is defender Gustaf Lagerbielke. The Braga center-back delivered a crucial performance in the playoff final, scoring a powerful header and effectively neutralizing Poland’s Robert Lewandowski. Lagerbielke, who is reportedly being eyed by top European leagues, has the potential to make a significant impact.
The Unsung Hero: Jesper Karlström
To succeed against technically gifted teams like the Netherlands and Japan, Sweden will rely heavily on the midfield presence of Jesper Karlström. The Udinese captain is a late bloomer whose career has seen him overcome personal struggles, including a gambling addiction.
Karlström’s calming influence and ability to dictate play from a deep-lying midfield position will be vital, especially alongside younger midfielders like Yasin Ayari and Lucas Bergvall.
Probable Starting XI
Sweden’s likely starting lineup is a 3-4-3 formation: Johansson – Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelöf – Holm, Ayari, Karlström, Gudmundsson – Elanga, Gyökeres, Isak.
Fan Support: The Blågult Contingent
Swedish supporters are renowned for their passionate and large-scale presence at tournaments. Known as Blågult (blue and yellow), they are characterized by their friendly banter and positive interactions with opposing fans.
Their anthem, “Kanna på,” a song about beer pitchers, highlights their convivial nature and the expected significant delegation of Swedish fans traveling to North America.
Looking Ahead: Navigating the Group Stage
Sweden’s path to the World Cup has been unconventional, marked by managerial change and dramatic playoff victories. Their group stage matches against Tunisia, the Netherlands, and Japan will test their resilience and tactical discipline.
The effectiveness of Graham Potter’s defensive organization and counter-attacking prowess will be key. The form of Viktor Gyökeres and the potential emergence of players like Gustaf Lagerbielke could be decisive factors as Sweden aims to surprise in the tournament. The team’s ability to adapt and perform against varied styles of play will be crucial in their quest to advance from a challenging group.
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