Viktor Gyokeres delivered a standout performance to keep Sweden’s World Cup hopes alive in Valencia on Thursday night.
The Arsenal forward scored a decisive hat trick, leading Sweden to a 3-1 victory over Ukraine. Sweden will now face Poland in a crucial match on Tuesday.
Graham Potter’s team entered the match considered underdogs after a winless qualification group stage.
However, Gyokeres showcased his talent, overpowering the Ukrainian defense.
The scoring started early at the Ciutat de Valencia stadium when Gyokeres connected with a precise cross from Benjamin Nygren in the sixth minute to give Sweden an early lead.
📣 Viktor Gyokeres with a hat-trick against Ukraine to send Sweden into the FIFA World Cup Qualifier play-off final 📣 pic.twitter.com/EEnDk2GX3h
— Premier League (@premierleague) March 26, 2026
Ukraine struggled to contain him throughout the first half. After halftime, the striker doubled the lead after a long ball from goalkeeper Kristoffer Nordfeldt. He used his strength to fend off a defender before finishing accurately. Gyokeres completed his hat trick from the penalty spot after being fouled in the box.
Potter praises Gyokeres
Sweden’s coach, Graham Potter, praised his forward after the match, saying, “Viktor’s performance was incredible.” He highlighted not only the hat trick but also Gyokeres’s hold-up play and defensive contributions.
Potter also noted that the team’s mentality remained strong despite missing key players like Alexander Isak.
This win marks Potter’s first since taking charge of the national team three games ago.
🗣 Graham Potter: “Viktor was world class. When you have a player like that you have a chance.” pic.twitter.com/VZYKWcUtyK
— Arsenal Radar (@ArsenalRadar) March 26, 2026
Ukraine’s World Cup exit
For Ukraine, this loss marks a disappointing end to their 2026 World Cup campaign. Young player Matvii Ponomarenko scored a late goal, but it was not enough.
Coach Serhiy Rebrov reflected on the result, acknowledging Gyokeres’s standout performance. “He showed his quality and why he plays for Arsenal,” Rebrov stated.
Rebrov’s future is uncertain, with his contract expiring in two months.
Sweden must quickly prepare to host Poland on Tuesday in Solna, where a win would secure their spot in the World Cup this summer.
Potter emphasized that the task is not yet complete. Still, the momentum from this victory provides a significant boost for the Swedish team.
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