Sweden’s World Cup dream fades after 1-0 home loss to Kosovo despite multiple chances for Isak and Gyokeres.
Sweden’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup are almost over after a 1-0 home defeat to Kosovo on Monday night. Liverpool striker Alexander Isak and Arsenal forward Viktor Gyokeres both missed several chances as Fisnik Asllani’s 32nd-minute strike sealed a famous win for Kosovo.
The result leaves Sweden with just one point and needing two wins, along with other results going their way, to have any hope of qualification. Isak had six shots in the match but failed to score, while Gyokeres also struggled to make an impact, drawing criticism from fans online.
“Sweden should take off Gyokeres… it’s almost like playing with 10 men,” one supporter wrote on X. Another said they were relieved Isak would get “a full rest and pre-season” after the likely elimination. Both players will now focus on club duties as Arsenal face Fulham and Liverpool meet Manchester United this weekend.