Graham Potter's Sweden secured a dominant 3-1 victory over Ukraine in the World Cup 2026 playoff decider, thanks to a superb hat-trick from Viktor Gyökeres. The win puts Sweden on the brink of qualifying for the World Cup, needing only to beat Poland at home on Tuesday.
Gyökeres opened the scoring within six minutes, converting Benjamin Nygren's cross from close range. Sweden controlled the first half with a solid defensive display, limiting Ukraine's opportunities despite their possession. Potter's side looked confident and well-organised, a far cry from the team that lost on his debut in November.
The second half saw Gyökeres add two more goals. His second came from a quick free kick by goalkeeper Kristoffer Nordfeldt, with Gyökeres showing composure to chip the ball past Anatoliy Trubin. The third was a penalty after he was fouled while attempting to round the goalkeeper, which he dispatched emphatically. Ukraine's late consolation came from Matviy Ponomarenko.
Potter praised Gyökeres's all-round performance, saying, 'To score a hat-trick was one thing, but his overall performance, hold-up play, and defensive responsibility were incredible.' Ukraine manager Serhiy Rebrov lamented his side's inability to impose themselves, citing Sweden's intense defence as a key factor.
Ukraine, playing at Levante's stadium due to the ongoing conflict, were hampered by injuries and suspensions. Rebrov's contract is set to expire, and his future remains uncertain. For Sweden, the path to the World Cup is clear with a home match against Poland to come.
