Liverpool attacker Isak and Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres were unable to stop Sweden from falling to a disappointing 2-0 loss against Switzerland in their World Cup qualifier held in Stockholm on Friday (October 10). ..Continue Reading
Sunderland’s Granit Xhaka opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 65th minute, and Freiburg’s Johan Manzambi added a second in stoppage time to seal the win for the visitors.
Both Gyokeres and Isak will be eager to move past their performances, as neither managed a single shot on target.
The 26-year-old Liverpool player nearly found the net in the first half after Spurs midfielder Lucas Bergvall set him up — Isak faced only the ‘keeper but saw his left-footed attempt crash off the post before Switzerland’s defenders cleared the danger.
Later in the match, Isak returned the gesture by setting up Bergvall, but the 19-year-old missed the opportunity despite having a clear sight of goal from close range.
The crowd at the Strawberry Arena voiced their frustration loudly, with some fans unveiling a provocative banner directed at Danish manager Jon Dahl Tomasson, demanding he step down.
Given the existing rivalry between the Scandinavian nations, his hiring had already sparked backlash from certain sections of the fanbase.
Following the game, Sweden’s right-back Emil Holm condemned the banner and stated that “things like that shouldn’t be allowed to happen”.
Isak also addressed the situation, saying that “no one benefits from being divided”.
So how did the Swedish press rate Gyokeres’ display and Isak’s debut as captain?
Fotbollskanalen gave Gyokeres a 1/5 score, commenting: “Sweden needed Gyokeres at the top of his game in the important World Cup qualifying match. But he didn’t get it in crucial situations.”
The same outlet rated Isak’s performance a 2/5, noting: “Missed a huge chance when the ball hit the post. Nice run when he got free and selflessly passed to Bergvall and should have gotten an assist.”
Expressen described Isak as “quick in the flesh – and in the head” in terms of sharpness, though they observed he faded as the match progressed.
Svenska Fans were harsher, awarding Isak a 1/5 and writing: “Today’s team captain. Ran on many balls.
“Had a shot in the post that was worth a better fate. Then won a duel and then came free at the end of the first act. However, did not succeed very often with his actions.”
The defeat leaves Sweden at the bottom of Group B with just one point from three matches.
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