Gyokeres sends Sweden to World Cup with dramatic winner against Poland

Viktor Gyökeres propelled Sweden to the 2026 World Cup with a dramatic 88th‑minute winner in a pulsating 3–2 play‑off victory over Poland on Tuesday. The Arsenal forward forced the ball over the line after a chaotic scramble, sealing Sweden’s return to the global stage and a place in Group F with the Netherlands, Japan and Tunisia. 

Anthony Elanga and Gustaf Lagerbielke had twice put Sweden ahead, only for Nicola Zalewski and Karol Swiderski to haul Poland level. After failing to reach Qatar 2022, Sweden completed their comeback to the finals following a turbulent campaign that was salvaged by topping their Nations League group. 

Elanga’s opener, created by a deft Yasin Ayari backheel, briefly settled nerves before Zalewski punished Kristoffer Nordfeldt’s misjudgment. Lagerbielke’s header restored the lead, but Swiderski struck again. As extra time loomed, Gyökeres delivered the decisive touch, sparking celebrations in Stockholm.