Swedish media have shared their thoughts on Alexander Isak's performance in Sweden's World Cup opener, where he played a starring role in a 5-1 victory over Tunisia. Graham Potter's side impressed in Group F, with Isak scoring once and providing two assists.
Isak's Return to Form
The Liverpool striker endured a frustrating first season at Anfield following his British record transfer from Newcastle United, scoring just three league goals. The 26-year-old initially struggled for match fitness before suffering a broken leg in December, though he recovered in the final weeks of the campaign to secure his World Cup spot. The tournament offers Isak an early chance to impress new Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola and prove he is back to his best on a global stage.
Aftonbladet's Verdict
A report from Aftonbladet stated that Isak “dominated” against Tunisia. His contributions were key as Sweden “crushed” their opponents, who had not conceded a goal in World Cup qualifying. The Liverpool star was named man of the match after scoring Sweden's second goal from distance at the end of a counter-attack. Isak was also praised for the way he “stole the ball from Tunisia captain Ellyes Skhiri”, which ultimately led to Viktor Gyokeres extending the lead. With six minutes remaining, Isak flicked on a free-kick into Mattias Svanberg's path, who scored immediately after being introduced as a substitute. The victory was described as putting Sweden “in a golden position” to advance to the knockout rounds.
Expressen's Analysis
The match marked Sweden's first World Cup game since 2018. A report from Expressen stated: “Sweden is back in the footballing spotlight and struck with an immediate victory.” The publication wrote that Isak had “introduced himself again” and noted that the Liverpool striker had overcome “an injury-plagued season” to score his first World Cup goal in the 30th minute. Tunisia were said to have “lost the ball at a cost” just before the hour mark as Isak recovered possession to set up Gyokeres' goal. Expressen stated the team's performance had “generated something of an echo in the football world” through their dominant win.
Goteborgs-Posten's Rating
Goteborgs-Posten reported that Sweden had triumphed over a “weak Tunisia”, who had been at fault for two of the goals. However, Isak received “the highest rating” as the outlet also credited the striker for his part in the move that led to Sweden's opener from Yasin Ayari. Summarising Isak's display, the publication wrote: “The attacking star was involved in four goals and showed he is back in earnest after injuries and poor form.”
Isak's Partnership with Gyokeres
Isak's strike partnership with Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres also caught attention, with the duo combining effectively. “The plan was that we [Isak and Gyokeres] could be the difference and counter,” Isak said after the win. “Do maximum actions and then recover a bit. It worked well. You've been nagging us to get more out of it, but I think we're doing well. Playing well together doesn't necessarily mean we're playing tiki-taka with each other or assisting each other. The most important thing is that we contribute to the team.”
