Sweden Eyes Crucial Redemption Against Switzerland in World Cup Qualifiers
Sweden prepares for a critical World Cup qualifier against group leaders Switzerland after early setbacks, with renewed player dynamics and tactical focus.
- • Sweden has struggled in qualifiers, with a draw against Slovenia and a loss to Kosovo.
- • Coach Jon Dahl Tomasson sticks with the 3-5-2 formation for upcoming matches.
- • Alexander Isak’s return boosts Sweden’s attacking options alongside Viktor Gyökeres.
- • Despite scoring in a friendly, Ken Sema lost his starting spot but stays hopeful.
- • Switzerland leads the group, but Sweden’s home advantage and goalkeeper Viktor Johansson are key factors.
Key details
Sweden's national football team is gearing up for a pivotal home match against Switzerland in the ongoing World Cup qualifiers after a rocky start to the competition. Following a 2-2 draw with Slovenia and a surprising 0-2 defeat by Kosovo, Sweden sits third in the group with just one point, while Switzerland leads with six points.
Coach Jon Dahl Tomasson is maintaining confidence in his 3-5-2 formation despite the setbacks, aiming to leverage the home advantage at Stockholm’s Strawberry Arena and the goalkeeping skills of Viktor Johansson to challenge the favored Swiss side. The attacking potential of Sweden remains notable, especially with forward Alexander Isak returning to form at Liverpool and linking up with Viktor Gyökeres to pressure the Swiss defense.
Anthony Elanga, who started in previous matches alongside Gyökeres, acknowledged the intensified competition in forward positions due to Isak’s comeback but emphasized the players’ responsibility to improve performance. “It is up to us players,” Elanga stated, stressing the need for better execution to reverse recent fortunes.
Ken Sema, who scored a hat-trick in a recent friendly against Algeria, has faced disappointment after losing his starting spot but remains hopeful for opportunities in the upcoming matches. Currently playing for Pafos in Cyprus alongside former star David Luiz, Sema expressed confidence in his efforts and the intense team competition.
Oddset betting odds suggest a home victory at 2.55, a figure considered too generous given Sweden’s potential to upset Switzerland and boost their standing in the qualifiers. With motivation high and tactical stability, Sweden is keen to claim a crucial win to stay in contention for World Cup qualification.
As the October qualifying matches unfold, Sweden aims to overcome early challenges and demonstrate resilience and skill to challenge the group leaders on home soil.