Gyokeres strikes late to secure Sweden’s World Cup return
Gyokeres strikes late to secure Sweden’s World Cup return Viktor Gyokeres struck late to send Sweden to the 2026 World Cup with a dramatic play-off victory over Poland at Strawberry Arena. The Arsenal striker lashed home from six yards out, banishing the memories of a dismal qualifying campaign and sparking wild celebrations in Stockholm. Sweden sparked into life during the final ten minutes of a tense, back-and-forth encounter.
Substitute Gustav Lundgren wriggled into the box to create the decisive opening. Lucas Bergvall’s initial shot was saved, and Besfort Zeneli hit the post before Gyokeres applied the clinical finish. The win marks Sweden’s return to the World Cup stage after missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar.
It also served to exorcise painful memories. Four years ago, a 2-0 play-off defeat to this same Poland side ended Swedish World Cup dreams. By reversing that result, Graham Potter’s side has effectively closed one of the darkest chapters in modern Swedish football history.
Viktor Gyokeres fires Graham Potter’s Sweden to the World Cup The journey has been remarkable, given a winless group stage under former manager Jon Dahl Tomasson. The 50-year-old Englishman switched to a back five to ensure defensive solidity, a tactical shift that successfully nullified the threat of Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski throughout a disciplined Poland performance. An ecstatic Potter made no attempt to hide his delight at the final whistle.
“We’re going to the World Cup, baby,” he told reporters after the game. The Englishman, a beloved figure in Sweden following his legendary spell at Ostersunds, also joked about dusting off his cowboy hat for the upcoming matches in Texas. Gyokeres proved indispensable throughout the play-offs, scoring four goals across two matches.