Sweden Faces Critical 0-1 Defeat to Kosovo in Pivotal World Cup Qualifier at Ullevi
Sweden endured a critical 0-1 loss to Kosovo in their 2025 World Cup qualifier at Ullevi, hobbling their chances to top the group and fueling calls for coaching changes amid fan frustration.
- • Sweden lost 0-1 to Kosovo, conceding a goal in the 32nd minute by Fisnik Asllani.
- • Sweden remains bottom of Group B with one point, making first place unattainable but still able to reach playoffs by finishing second.
- • Coach Jon Dahl Tomasson faces criticism yet retains support from players and federation.
- • The match was held at Ullevi in Gothenburg, a rare venue for the Swedish team, with hopes of fan support and better playing conditions.
Key details
In a crucial 2025 World Cup qualifier held at Ullevi in Gothenburg, Sweden suffered a disappointing 0-1 loss to Kosovo, leaving their qualification prospects under serious threat. Despite dominating the game, Sweden was unable to capitalize on their chances, conceding a decisive goal in the 32nd minute when Kosovo's Fisnik Asllani found the net through a defensive lapse, outmaneuvering goalkeeper Viktor Johansson. Johansson’s key saves prevented Kosovo from scoring further, yet Sweden’s struggle to convert opportunities persisted, exemplified by a near miss from a Lagerbielke header in the 73rd minute. (Sources: 99295, 99293, 99309)
This defeat places Sweden at the bottom of Group B with just one point from three matches, behind Kosovo, who now sit second with seven points. Switzerland leads the group with a perfect nine points. The loss effectively eliminates Sweden's chances of topping the group but keeps the prospect of securing second place — which guarantees a World Cup playoff in March. However, falling six points behind Kosovo with only two matches remaining significantly complicates their path. (Sources: 98559, 99293, 99309)
The Swedish team had approached this home match at Ullevi — notably an unusual venue choice where players like Alexander Isak have never played before — with high hopes for strong fan support, optimistic about the better playing conditions compared to their usual stadium. Despite these factors and an aggressive, offensive playing style, the team failed to deliver the required results. Coach Jon Dahl Tomasson faces mounting criticism, with public calls for his resignation intensifying following recent poor performances, including the earlier 0-2 loss to Switzerland. Nevertheless, Sweden’s players and football federation maintain support for Tomasson, with his contract set to extend if he can guide Sweden to the World Cup. (Sources: 98559, 98802)
Fan dissatisfaction was notably visible during the match, with social media and stadium banners demanding changes in the team's management, reflecting growing frustration over Sweden's unexpected struggles. Football expert Mikael Lustig highlighted post-match that Sweden remains in contention for a playoff spot amid these challenges. The scenario underscores a dire need for tactical improvements as Sweden seeks to revive their World Cup ambitions. (Sources: 99295)