Sweden's 2026 World Cup qualifiers: What you need to know
The Blue and Gold are gearing up for another World Cup journey - with a mix of seasoned stars and young promises, the dream of the 2026 World Cup is very much alive. Follow Sweden's path through the group stage, key matches and tactical keys on the road to football's biggest stage
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Sweden's 2026 World Cup qualifiers: What you need to know
Sweden is about to qualify for the 2026 World Cup with an exciting autumn ahead. Jon Dahl Tomasson has been the coach since February and will now lead the Blue and Yellow towards the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico. The qualifiers consist of twelve groups, with the winners going straight to the World Cup and the runners-up getting a second chance via a play-off. Sweden ended up in Group B, and it's a group that feels manageable but not without challenges.
What does the group look like?
Group B is made up of Sweden, Switzerland, Slovenia and Kosovo. Switzerland are the toughest opponents with their tight defence and players like Granit Xhaka, who can dominate the midfield. Slovenia has a young star in Benjamin Sesko, who is dangerous in front of goal, especially at home. Kosovo are the underdogs of the group, but they have shown that they can cause an upset, as they did against Romania in previous qualifiers. In such matches, it might be worth keeping an eye on live betting and follow the outcome.
The qualifiers started on 5 September 2025 with Slovenia away, followed by Kosovo at home on 8 October. Then there will be a double-header against Switzerland and a final home game against Slovenia. To win the group, Sweden will probably need 12-15 points, based on previous qualifiers. Home advantage at Friends Arena could be key, especially against Switzerland.
Players to watch out for
Alexander Isak is Sweden's big hope going forward, despite having injury concerns at Newcastle. His speed and nose for goal are crucial, as we saw in the Nations League when he scored twice against Finland last summer. Victor Lindelöf, if fit, provides stability in the backline with his Manchester United experience. Dejan Kulusevski is in danger of miss the first match due to a muscle injury, so keep an eye on the squad lists there. Jesper Karlström could be a stable force in the centre, and young Lucas Bergvall might get the chance if Tomasson wants to rotate.
Tactical keys that will be crucial
Tomasson's philosophy is based on high pressure and quick transitions, which suits players like Isak and Elanga. Against Switzerland, it will be important to lock Xhaka in the centre - perhaps by putting Karlström close to him. Slovenia will require a tight defence to stop Sesko, who often looks for deep runs. Kosovo, Sweden can dominate by keeping the ball and utilising the edges. An example from the Nations League: against Austria in the spring, Sweden lost due to weak edge play, so Tomasson is likely to focus on strengthening the full-backs, like Emil Krafth or Gabriel Gudmundsson.
The squad is struggling with several injuries
Another factor is the depth of the squad. Sweden have had problems with injuries, and if key players like Kulusevski or Lindelöf are missing, it could be tough. We all know how important routine is in a sports such as football. Tomasson has hinted at giving younger players such as Bergvall and Hugo Larsson a chance, which could provide new energy but also risk inexperience in crucial situations.
What are the next steps?
Sweden has a realistic chance of winning the group if Tomasson gets his defence right and exploits Isak's form. If they make the play-offs, they will probably face tougher opposition, such as Belgium or Denmark. Of course, we'll be keeping an eye on everything that happens between now and the 2026 World Cup.
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Football's immortal icons: the profiles that shaped the game
International football has had many colourful personalities who have left their mark both on and off the pitch. Among Europe's most iconic players is Dutchman Ruud Gullit, known for his versatility and strong leadership skills in the 1980s. Germany's Franz Beckenbauer changed the game of defence when, as 'Der Kaiser', he combined elegance with strength to become a world champion both as a player and a coach.
Portuguese Eusébio, the 'Black Panther', was a hit in the 1960s with his speed and distinctive goal-scoring ability, while in modern times Swedish Zlatan Ibrahimović has inspired with his spectacular goals and charismatic charisma.
Frenchman Thierry Henry, whose time at Arsenal set new goal-scoring records, also stands out among attacking profiles, while compatriot Zinedine Zidane mesmerised the crowd with his technique and settled a World Cup final with a powerful header.
Each player, with their unique style of play and personality, has helped shape the history of football - and their achievements continue to inspire players and fans around the world.
