What Can France Expect From Sweden at the 2026 World Cup?

The Swedish national team struggled badly during their World Cup qualifiers, managing only one point in their first four matches under coach Jon Dahl Tomasson. After a 1-0 loss to Kosovo in October 2025, Tomasson was dismissed.

Enter Graham Potter

Graham Potter took over the helm, bringing with him experience from his time coaching Östersund, where he transformed the club from the fourth tier to the top Swedish league, won the national cup, and even upset Arsenal in the Europa League.

Potter reverted Sweden’s style back to a classic approach: solid defense and sharp counterattacks. Although he initially preferred a back four formation, he surprisingly switched to a 5-3-2 setup for the playoffs, emphasizing defensive solidity.

Path Through the Playoffs

Thanks to the Nations League, Sweden earned a second chance to qualify. They impressed in the semi-final against Ukraine, winning 3-1 thanks to a hat-trick from Viktor Gyökeres. The final against Poland was intense; Poland dominated much of the game but Gyökeres came through again with a late winner in the 88th minute, sealing a 3-2 victory.

"It’s hard to explain, hard to describe," Potter said after the win. "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 earning only two points from six group games, Sweden’s playoff success has punched their ticket to the World Cup. Their group now includes Tunisia, the Netherlands, and Japan, and there’s genuine hope they can advance.

Injuries and Doubts

Sweden faces challenges ahead. Captain Dejan Kulusevski will miss the tournament, a huge blow given his impact on the squad. Questions also linger about the fitness and form of striker Alexander Isak.

What to Expect From Swedish Fans

Swedish fans are known for their strong presence at major tournaments, often traveling in large numbers and creating a lively atmosphere. Supporters of the "Blågult" (blue and yellow) are friendly, engage well with rival fans, and enjoy plenty of banter. Their anthem, "Kanna på," celebrates endless pitchers of beer and boasts "We are coming with 100,000 men." While no Viking invasion is planned, expect a sea of yellow and blue in North America.