This article is part of the Guardian’s 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a cooperation between some of the best media organisations from the 48 countries who qualified. theguardian.com is running previews from three countries each day in the run-up to the tournament kicking off on 11 June.

The plan

Sweden’s path to the World Cup began in difficult circumstances, earning only a single point across the opening four matches under Jon Dahl Tomasson. The Dane was dismissed in October 2025 following a narrow 1-0 loss to Kosovo.

Graham Potter arrived next, bringing experience from his successful spell at Swedish club Östersund from 2011 to 2017, where he guided the side from the fourth division to the top flight, secured the domestic cup and defeated Arsenal in the Europa League.

Potter emphasised classic Swedish principles, prioritising a resilient backline and sharp counter-attacks. Although he initially favoured a four-man defence, he deployed a 5-3-2 formation during the playoffs to maintain defensive stability.

The Nations League provided Sweden an alternative route into the finals. They delivered a strong showing against Ukraine in Spain during the semi-finals, prevailing 3-1 thanks to a Viktor Gyokeres hat-trick. The final versus Poland proved far more challenging, with the opponents controlling much of the contest, yet Gyokeres delivered again with an 88th-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory.

“It’s hard to explain, hard to describe,” remarked an elated Potter. “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.”

Thus Sweden reached the World Cup after securing just two points from six group-stage fixtures. They will meet Tunisia, Netherlands and Japan aiming to advance from the group stage – a clear illustration of the Potter effect.

Injury concerns include the absence of captain Dejan Kulusevski, whose impact on the squad is immense. His presence will be missed in North America. Doubts also surround Alexander Isak’s condition and recent performances, though he found the net as a substitute in a one-sided 3-1 defeat to Norway on 1 June.

The coach

In October 2025 Graham Potter spoke to Fotbollskanalen in terms that conveyed more than mild interest in the Sweden role. “I have feelings for Sweden,” he stated. “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, and despite early results the Swedish FA extended his contract until 2030 in March. Potter is fluent in Swedish and viewed the position as ideal following challenging tenures at Chelsea and West Ham.

Star player

Alexander Isak became the costliest signing in Premier League history last year after transferring from Newcastle to Liverpool for £125 million, yet after a difficult debut campaign at Anfield the standout figure for the national side is undoubtedly Viktor Gyokeres. The Arsenal striker also endured an initial adjustment period at his new club but has regained momentum lately, netting four of Sweden’s six goals across the playoff matches. His standing rose further after the late strike against Poland, prompting fans nationwide to share recreations of his goal celebration inspired by Bane, the character portrayed by Tom Hardy in The Dark Knight Rises.

One to watch

Beyond Celtic’s Benjamin Nygren, Gustaf Lagerbielke could assume an unexpectedly prominent role for Sweden in North America. The Braga defender delivered a decisive display in the playoff final against Poland, scoring with a powerful header while neutralising Robert Lewandowski. As a baron and 254th in line to the Swedish throne, his background adds further interest. Speculation about a move to a leading European league this summer continues, and a strong World Cup showing would enhance his prospects.

Unsung hero

Success this summer will require Sweden to prevail in midfield duels against technically adept Netherlands and a determined, skilful Japan. Jesper Karlström is expected to play a central part. The Udinese captain in Serie A is a late developer who established himself at Djurgården before moving to Lech Poznan in Poland. He has discussed overcoming a gambling addiction during his time at Djurgården with support from the club and his family. Karlström embodies the classic deep-lying midfielder profile, strong in challenges and able to control tempo. At 30 his composed influence will prove vital in North America alongside emerging talents such as Yasin Ayari and Lucas Bergvall.

Probable starting XI

What to expect from fans at games?

Swedish supporters are known for travelling in significant numbers to major tournaments and creating an atmosphere. Followers of Blågult (blue and yellow) are typically welcoming and enjoy light-hearted exchanges with rival fans. Their signature chant is “Kanna på”, which celebrates the steady arrival of beer pitchers. Yes, the Swedes enjoy a beer or six. The song also declares: “We are coming with 100,000 men” and, although another Viking-style arrival may not materialise in America, a substantial yellow-and-blue contingent is anticipated at the World Cup.

Relationship with the US/Trump?

“Look what happened in Sweden last night.” Those were the words of president Trump in 2017 when discussing issues linked to high levels of immigration and related security incidents. The difficulty was that no major events had occurred in Sweden the previous evening. Trump later clarified he had been referencing a Fox News television report, which did little to resolve the matter. Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet later summarised events in the country on the day Trump mentioned:

Famous singer Owe Thörnqvist encountered technical issues during rehearsals
A man set himself on fire at a square in central Stockholm
Road closures occurred in northern Sweden owing to “harsh weather”

Written by Samuel Parts for fotbollskanalen.se.