On Monday, the 8th round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers will see Sweden play against Kosovo at Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg. Here’s a look at what to expect from the match.
Match preview
Sweden has had a challenging start to the qualifiers, managing just one point from three matches. Their latest home loss to Switzerland (0-2) raised concerns for Jon Dahl Tomasson’s team, which is currently at the bottom of Group B. The early fixtures were tough, with two of the first three games away, where Sweden often struggles. However, at home, Sweden typically performs well — they have nine wins in their last 11 home qualifiers.
The team prioritizes solid defending and swift counter-attacks. Sweden is particularly strong at home; they have kept a clean sheet in eight of their last ten home World Cup qualifiers. Despite recent struggles, the team has a good mix, featuring a strong defense and a creative attack led by Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres. This match presents a key opportunity for the hosts to revive their World Cup hopes.
Kosovo has had a good run by their standards, with Franco Foda’s team drawing 0-0 with Slovenia and achieving back-to-back clean sheets for the first time in their history. Their organized and tight defense allows them to compete even with stronger sides. Kosovo is currently in second place in the group, five points behind leaders Switzerland.
However, Kosovo struggles away from home. They have not won in nine of their last ten away qualifiers and have scored more than once only once in their last ten road matches. Their lack of attacking options may be a disadvantage against a home team that is typically strong. Kosovo will need to keep their formation tight and utilize counter-attacking chances through players like Rashica and Zhegrova.
Probable lineups
- Sweden: Johansson, Svensson, Ekdal, Lindelöf, Gudmundsson, Bergvall, Karlström, Holm, Ayari, Gyökeres, Isak
- Kosovo: Muric, Vojvoda, Krasniqi, Hajdari, Aliti, Berisha, Muslija, Rexhbecaj, Rashica, Muriqi, Zhegrova
Match facts and head-to-head
- Sweden has won 9 of their last 11 home World Cup qualifiers.
- Kosovo has not won in 9 of their last 10 away qualifiers.
- At least one team has kept a clean sheet in 8 of Sweden’s last 9 World Cup qualifiers.
Prediction
Sweden is traditionally strong at home and has a good chance to end their winless streak against Kosovo. The visitors are not known for winning away games or their attacking skills, giving Sweden a clear advantage. Expect the hosts to play a disciplined game and secure all three points through their quality and home advantage.