Swedish Stars Shine in Key International Club Matches in January 2026

Swedish footballers made decisive impacts in major international club competitions this January. In the inaugural women's club World Cup semifinal, Stina Blackstenius scored the opening goal for Arsenal to lead a commanding 6-0 victory over Morocco's AS FAR. Blackstenius headed in a corner from Beth Mead in the 8th minute, a goal confirmed after a video review. Arsenal swiftly surged to a 4-0 lead by halftime, with Smilla Holmberg earning a penalty that Mariona Caldentey converted for the third goal. Alessia Russo finished the scoring. This tournament gathers champions from six continental confederations, with the final scheduled in London on Sunday.

On the men's side, Viktor Gyökeres netted for Arsenal just two minutes into their UEFA Champions League group stage match against FK Kairat Almaty at Emirates Stadium. Assisted by Kai Havertz, the goal marked Gyökeres' fourth in this season's Champions League. Kairat equalized via penalty shortly after.

In another Champions League fixture, Anthony Elanga started for Newcastle after 1.5 months but was involved in a collision injuring PSG's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who had to exit the match after twisting his ankle. Elanga received a yellow card for the challenge. Early in that game, Nick Pope saved a PSG penalty. Both teams ended with a 1-1 draw, securing their knockout stage spots but falling short of the top eight, thus entering the round of 32.

These performances highlight Swedish players' significant contributions in crucial international club matches during January 2026, spanning both men's and women's competitions.