Graham Potter has described leading Sweden to the 2026 World Cup as the best night of his career, after a dramatic play-off victory over Poland secured their place in the tournament. The former Brighton manager, who took over the national team in October, had just four months to prepare for two do-or-die matches.
Potter replaced Jon Dahl Tomasson after a disastrous qualifying campaign and was tasked with building a team in minimal time. ‘You have two days to prepare for a game,’ he said. ‘It doesn’t matter what you think or your ideas. What matters is getting the players on the pitch that have the best chance of winning.’
Sweden’s path to the World Cup came through the Nations League play-offs. After a hat-trick from Viktor Gyokeres in the semi-final against Ukraine, they faced Poland in Stockholm. The match swung back and forth before Gyokeres scored a last-minute winner, sparking wild celebrations.
‘Viktor scores and it’s like an out-of-body experience,’ Potter recalled. ‘All our subs are running on the pitch and I’m thinking, “That’s yellow cards, that’s problems.” But of course it’s for the World Cup, so all the rules are out the door.’
Potter’s connection to Sweden runs deep. He spent seven years managing Ostersund, taking them from the fourth tier to the Swedish Cup title and Europa League. His children were born there, and he sings the national anthem with gusto. ‘I feel very Swedish when I’m working,’ he said.
