After missing the 2022 World Cup, Sweden return for the 2026 global showpiece in North America, this time under the guidance of a new manager, Graham Potter.
Sweden pulled off what was dubbed by some as a “great escape,” sealing their place at the FIFA World Cup 2026 via the UEFA European play-offs following a frustrating qualifying campaign.
After missing the last football World Cup in Qatar, the pressure was firmly on this team to spark a revival.
That dream almost slipped through their fingers until Graham Potter steadied the ship in the late stages, guiding them to qualification within just five months of his appointment.
Making their 13th World Cup appearance in this North American summer, Sweden will face three-time runners-up Netherlands, Asian giants Japan, and African nation Tunisia in Group F.
Quick facts
- Captain: Victor Lindelöf
- Manager: Graham Potter
- World Cup appearances (including 2026): 13
- Best World Cup result: Final (1958)
FIFA World Cup 2026 – Sweden’s full squad
Goalkeepers: Viktor Johansson (Stoke City), Kristoffer Nordfeldt (AIK Fotball AB), Jacob Widell Zetterström (Derby County)
Defenders: Hjalmar Ekdal (Burnley), Gabriel Gudmundsson (Leeds United), Isak Hien (Atalanta), Emil Holm (Juventus), Gustaf Lagerbielke (SC Braga), Victor Lindelöf (Aston Villa), Eric Smith (St Pauli), Carl Starfelt (Celta de Vigo), Elliot Stroud Mjallby), Daniel Svensson (Borussia Dortmund)
Midfielders: Jesper Kalström (Udinese), Yasin Ayari (Brighton), Mattias Svanberg (Wolfsburg), Lucas Bergvall (Tottenham), Besfort Zeneli (Saint-Gilloise)
Forwards: Taha Ali (Malmö), Alexander Bernhardsson (Holstein Kiel), Anthony Elanga (Newcastle), Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal), Alexander Isak (Liverpool), Gustaf Nilsson (Club Brugge), Benjamin Nygren (Celtic), Ken Sema (Pafos)