Sweden's path to the 2026 World Cup was anything but smooth, yet they have arrived in North America with renewed optimism under coach Graham Potter. After a disastrous start to qualifying under Jon Dahl Tomasson, who was sacked following a 1-0 loss to Kosovo in October 2025, the Swedish Football Association turned to a familiar face: Potter, who had previously found success with Swedish club Östersund. His appointment has sparked a revival, culminating in dramatic playoff victories that secured Sweden's spot in the tournament.
The Plan
Sweden's qualifying campaign began disastrously, with just one point from their first four matches. Tomasson's dismissal paved the way for Potter, who had made a name for himself by leading Östersund from the fourth tier to the Allsvenskan, winning the Swedish Cup, and famously defeating Arsenal in the Europa League. Under Potter, Sweden returned to traditional strengths: a stubborn defense and effective counterattacks. Despite initially preferring a back four, he employed a 5-3-2 formation in the playoffs, prioritizing defensive solidity. The Nations League offered a second chance, and Sweden seized it with a 3-1 win over Ukraine in the semifinals, thanks to a hat-trick from Viktor Gyökeres. The final against Poland was a tense affair, with Poland dominating for large periods, but Gyökeres again proved decisive, scoring an 88th-minute winner in a 3-2 thriller. "It's hard to explain, hard to describe," said a delighted Potter. "Just an incredible evening, just so proud to be part of that... It was just the best night I've had in football." Sweden thus qualified despite collecting only two points from six group games, a testament to the "Potter effect." However, they will be without captain Dejan Kulusevski due to injury, a significant loss, and Alexander Isak's form and fitness remain concerns, though he scored as a substitute in a 3-1 defeat to Norway on 1 June.
The Coach
Graham Potter's move to the Swedish national team was no surprise to those who followed his career. In October 2025, he gave an interview to Fotbollskanalen that was widely seen as a "come-and-get-me" plea. "I have feelings for Sweden," he said. "I love the country and I love Swedish football. Coaching the national team would be an incredible opportunity for me, absolutely." Days later, he was appointed. Despite not winning his first two games, the Swedish FA was so impressed that they offered him a contract extension to 2030 in March. Potter speaks fluent Swedish, and the role proved ideal after difficult spells at Chelsea and West Ham.
Star Player
Alexander Isak became the most expensive transfer in Premier League history when he moved from Newcastle to Liverpool for £125 million, but a tough first season at Anfield has seen his talismanic status for Sweden eclipsed by Viktor Gyökeres. The Arsenal forward also struggled initially at his new club but has hit form recently, scoring four of Sweden's six goals in the two playoff ties. His popularity soared after the late winner against Poland, with fans across the country posting their own versions of his goal celebration, inspired by the Bane character from The Dark Knight Rises.
One to Watch
Beyond Celtic's Benjamin Nygren, defender Gustaf Lagerbielke could play a bigger role than expected. The Braga centre-back delivered a crucial performance in the playoff final against Poland, scoring with a powerful header and keeping Robert Lewandowski quiet. Adding to his intrigue, Lagerbielke is a baron and 254th in line to the Swedish throne. A move to a top-five league is rumored this summer, and a strong World Cup would enhance his prospects.
Unsung Hero
For Sweden to succeed against technically gifted sides like the Netherlands and tenacious teams like Japan, midfielder Jesper Karlström will be vital. The Udinese captain is a late bloomer who overcame a gambling addiction at Djurgården with club and family support. A deep-lying midfielder, Karlström is solid in tackles and capable of dictating play. At 30, his calming presence will be crucial alongside youngsters Yasin Ayari and Lucas Bergvall in midfield.
Probable Starting XI
Sweden's likely lineup features a 5-3-2 formation, with a focus on defensive stability and quick transitions.
What to Expect from Fans
Swedish supporters, known as Blågult (blue and yellow), travel in large numbers and make themselves heard. They are friendly and engage in banter with opposition fans. Their anthem, "Kanna på," references beer pitchers that keep arriving, reflecting their love for a drink. The song declares, "We are coming with 100,000 men," and while a Viking invasion may not materialize, a large yellow-and-blue contingent will be present at the World Cup.
Relationship with the US/Trump
In 2017, President Trump famously said, "Look what happened in Sweden last night," referring to supposed issues with immigration and terrorism. However, nothing dramatic had occurred; the comment was based on a Fox News report. Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet summarized the day's actual events: singer Owe Thörnqvist had technical issues in rehearsals, a man set himself on fire at a plaza in central Stockholm, and road closures in northern Sweden due to harsh weather. The incident remains a curious footnote in US-Sweden relations.
