Sweden Faces Key Challenges Ahead of Crucial World Cup Qualifier Against Slovenia

The Swedish national football team is grappling with multiple challenges ahead of their decisive World Cup qualifying match against Slovenia on November 18, 2025, at the National Arena Strawberry Arena. Despite currently sitting last in their group B and suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat to Switzerland, Sweden remains in contention for a World Cup spot through their Nations League performance, with hopes hinging on winning two playoff matches in March next year.

Sweden enters the match as slight favorites despite their position, but the team is dealing with critical absences. Anthony Elanga has left the squad for personal reasons, while Viktor Gyökeres was not selected, and both Lucas Bergvall and Hugo Larsson had to withdraw before the previous match against Switzerland. Additionally, Victor Nilsson Lindelöf is unavailable, Alexander Isak is not ready to start, and Emil Holm suffered an injury during the recent match. Goalkeeper Viktor Johansson is also sidelined from training, following medical advice.

Compounding Sweden's troubles, nine players face suspension risks due to accumulated yellow cards, including key figures such as Viktor Johansson and Emil Forsberg. The coaching staff is expected to rotate the squad in this match to avoid suspensions that could affect the upcoming playoff. Slovenia is also missing top players Jan Oblak and Benjamin Sesko but remains a tough opponent despite their elimination from qualifying. The match will be streamed live on Viaplay with commentary by Anders Bjuhr and Fredrik Ljungberg.

The match is crucial, not for direct qualification, which Sweden cannot secure anymore, but to build momentum and avoid suspensions ahead of the playoff. Both Sweden and Slovenia have struggled offensively during qualifying; Slovenia has scored only two goals in the campaign, both in a previous draw against Sweden. The Swedish team aims to stabilize their performance despite recent setbacks, including a disappointing second-half collapse against Switzerland that highlighted their vulnerabilities under coach Graham Potter.

As the decisive game approaches, Sweden hopes to navigate these squad challenges successfully and secure a strong finish to their qualifying campaign before their playoff journey begins in March.