Sweden Overhauls Starting Lineup Ahead of Crucial World Cup Qualifier vs Switzerland
Ahead of their pivotal World Cup qualifier, Sweden's coach Jon Dahl Tomasson has made major lineup changes, including bringing back Alexander Isak as captain and introducing new talents like Gustaf Lagerbielke and Ken Sema for the match against Switzerland.
- • Jon Dahl Tomasson replaces over half of Sweden's starting players following a loss to Kosovo.
- • Alexander Isak returns to start and serve as team captain, replacing Anthony Elanga.
- • Viktor Johansson debuts as goalkeeper, replacing retired Robin Olsen.
- • New players Lucas Bergvall, Gustaf Lagerbielke, Ken Sema, and Jesper Karlström enter the lineup.
- • Match takes place at fully sold-out Strawberry Arena against Switzerland, who lead the qualifying group.
Key details
Sweden's national football team will feature significant changes in its starting lineup for the key World Cup qualifier against Switzerland, scheduled for 20:45 at the sold-out Strawberry Arena in Stockholm. Head coach Jon Dahl Tomasson has revamped the lineup following a disappointing 0-2 loss to Kosovo, replacing over half of the previous squad.
New inclusions include midfielders Lucas Bergvall and Jesper Karlström, defender Gustaf Lagerbielke, and winger Ken Sema. Alexander Isak returns as captain, taking over from Anthony Elanga, while Viktor Johansson starts in goal, succeeding Robin Olsen who has retired from international duty. The defense sees the addition of Isak Hien, whose fitness was a concern but confirmed after hard work with medical staff. Lagerbielke, making only his fourth national appearance, has impressed at Braga, earning praise from Tomasson for his composure and defensive skills.
The confirmed starting eleven is goalkeeper Viktor Johansson; defenders Gustaf Lagerbielke, Isak Hien, Gabriel Gudmundsson; midfielders Alexander Bernhardsson, Jesper Karlström, Lucas Bergvall, Yasin Ayari, Ken Sema; and forwards Viktor Gyökeres, Alexander Isak.
Switzerland currently leads the qualifying group with six points and an impressive 7-0 goal difference. This match marks the 30th meeting between the two sides, who are evenly matched historically with 11 wins each. Sweden aims to rebound from earlier setbacks and challenge the group leaders on home turf at Strawberry Arena.