Alexander Isak and Dejan Kulusevski Out as Sweden Prepares for 2026 World Cup Playoff

Sweden's preparations for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff match against Ukraine have been hampered by injuries to key players, most notably star forward Alexander Isak. According to head coach Graham Potter, Isak will miss the playoff scheduled for March 26 in Valencia as he continues to recover from a fractured leg. Potter emphasized that despite steady progress in training, it is "too early" for Isak to return to competitive play.

Dejan Kulusevski, the Tottenham forward, is also sidelined as he recuperates from knee surgery. Amid the absence of these pivotal attackers, Lucas Bergvall has been called up to the squad after a successful return to training, with Potter noting Bergvall's impressive form and the upcoming matches offering a chance to evaluate his readiness.

Sweden is also facing a goalkeeper dilemma due to injuries and illness affecting first-choice Viktor Johansson and Jacob Widell Zetterström respectively. To address this, Potter has summoned Kristoffer Nordfeldt, Melker Ellborg, and Noel Törnqvist, bolstering options between the posts.

The Swedish squad features a mix of domestic and international talents across positions. The defense lineup includes players such as Gabriel Gudmundsson from Leeds and Victor Nilsson Lindelöf from Aston Villa, while the midfield and forward positions boast names like Anthony Elanga of Newcastle and Viktor Gyökeres from Arsenal.

Potter recognizes the challenge ahead, with Ukraine finishing second behind France in their qualifying group. Should Sweden prevail in the playoff, they will secure a spot in the World Cup group stage alongside Tunisia, the Netherlands, and Japan. The tournament is set to be hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

Despite the setbacks, Sweden remains focused and determined to compete, with Potter confident in the squad's ability to handle the intense pressure of this critical qualifying phase.