Sweden’s dwindling hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup suffered another major setback following a 1-0 home defeat to Kosovo in Stockholm, leaving the 2018 quarter-finalists anchored at the bottom of Group B.
Fisnik Asllani’s first-half strike secured Kosovo’s second win over Sweden in the campaign, further damaging the Scandinavian side’s already fragile qualification prospects.
Despite starting attacking duo Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres, Sweden managed little in front of goal, with both forwards struggling to convert their chances — a frustration that summed up a disappointing night for Jon Dahl Tomasson’s team.
Isak, who recently joined Liverpool in a £125 million ($165m) move from Newcastle United, completed the full 90 minutes for the second consecutive match but was unable to make a significant impact. The defeat followed a 2-0 loss to Switzerland, increasing the pressure on head coach Tomasson.
After the match, Anthony Elanga — who moved from Nottingham Forest to Newcastle United in July — voiced his frustration. The winger came off the bench in the second half, replacing Lucas Bergvall, but was visibly upset after the final whistle.
According to Radiosporten via Fotbollskanalen, Elanga was overheard saying, “This system has to go,” expressing discontent with the team’s 3-5-2 formation.
When questioned about his remark, Elanga explained, “When you’re on the pitch, things can look different. We, as players, have to take responsibility — and unfortunately, it didn’t work today.”
Asked about Elanga’s comments in his post-match press conference, Tomasson replied, “I haven’t heard what Anthony said, so I can’t comment on it.”