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UEFA Euro 2026 Qualifiers: Sweden vs Switzerland
Date: October 14, 2025
Location: Friends Arena, Stockholm, Sweden
Competition: UEFA Euro 2026 Qualifiers
Match Overview
Sweden hosted Switzerland in a highly anticipated Euro 2026 qualifier at the iconic Friends Arena. The game was a tense, tightly contested affair, ultimately ending in a 1-1 draw. Both teams showcased disciplined defending, tactical flexibility, and moments of brilliance in attack.
First Half
The match started with both sides probing for openings, with Switzerland looking to control possession and Sweden seeking quick counterattacks. In the 23rd minute, Sweden's forward Alexander Isak almost opened the scoring with a powerful shot from outside the box, but Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer made a spectacular save, tipping the ball over the crossbar.
Switzerland responded with increased intensity and created several chances, with Bruno Petković forcing a save from Swedish keeper Robin Olsen in the 35th minute. The deadlock was broken just before halftime — in the 44th minute, Switzerland's winger Xherdan Shaqiri delivered a precise cross that found Haris Seferović, who headed it past Olsen for the opening goal. The Swiss took a 1-0 lead into halftime amid celebrations.
Second Half
Sweden came out with renewed energy after the break, pressing high and trying to find an equalizer. Their efforts paid off in the 62nd minute when Dejan Kulusevski scored a well-placed shot from the edge of the box, leveling the score at 1-1. The goal was a result of quick combination play and a clever pass from Alexander Isak, who was involved throughout the game.
The match remained intense, with both teams pushing for the winner. Switzerland nearly retook the lead in the 78th minute when Remo Freuler hit the post with a long-range effort. Sweden also had a chance in the dying moments when Marcus Berg headed just wide from a corner kick.
In the final minutes, both teams played cautiously, knowing that the draw kept their hopes alive for qualification. The referee blew the final whistle shortly after a series of tense moments, leaving the score at 1-1.
Player Performances
Sweden- Alexander Isak: Led the attack with pace and creativity, setting up the equalizer and threatening throughout the match.
- Dejan Kulusevski: Provided energy and technical skill, scoring the crucial equalizer.
- Robin Olsen: Made several key saves, keeping Sweden in the game and preventing a Swiss second goal.
- Haris Seferović: Scored the opening goal with a strong header, showing his aerial ability.
- Xherdan Shaqiri: Played a pivotal role in creating chances, delivering the assist for Seferović.
- Yann Sommer: Made important saves, especially in the first half, to keep Switzerland in contention.
Implications
The draw keeps both Sweden and Switzerland in the race for qualification, though they face stiff competition from other European sides. Sweden will be looking to improve their attack, while Switzerland will aim to tighten their defense in upcoming fixtures.
Overall, it was an exciting, hard-fought match that demonstrated the high level of European international football as both teams eye a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
