Arsenal striker Viktor Gyökeres scored a stunning hat-trick to lead Sweden to a 3-1 victory over Ukraine, setting up a decisive World Cup qualification play-off final against Poland on Tuesday.
Viktor Gyökeres dominated the Ciutat de Valencia on Thursday, scoring three times to end Ukraine’s World Cup dreams.
The Arsenal forward opened the scoring early before adding two second-half goals, including a clinical penalty he won himself.
Reflecting on the talisman’s impact, Sweden coach Graham Potter remarked, “Obviously Viktor’s performance was incredible.
Outside of the goals… I thought overall his hold up play and his defensive responsibility was part of an incredible performance.”
Ukraine managed a late consolation through Matvii Ponomarenko, but the defeat leaves coach Serhiy Rebrov facing an uncertain future with his contract expiring shortly.
Rebrov was full of praise for the opposition striker, noting, “He showed his quality, why he plays for Arsenal and why he is one of the best strikers in Europe.”
Sweden now returns home to face Poland, needing one final victory to secure their spot in the 2026 tournament.