MOTERREY, MEXICO June 14, 2026 – Sweden launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in style on Monday, dismantling Tunisia 5-1 in their Group F opener at Estadio BBVA.
Yasin Ayari stole the show with a brilliant brace, including a stunning opener from outside the box in the 7th minute and a late strike in stoppage time. Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres combined effectively in attack, with Isak netting in the 30th minute and Gyökeres adding the third goal just before the hour mark. Substitute Mattias Svanberg rounded out the scoring in the 84th minute.
Tunisia pulled one back through Omar Rekik’s well-taken header in the 43rd minute, but it proved only a consolation as Sweden’s clinical finishing and high pressing overwhelmed the North Africans.
Under coach Graham Potter, Sweden showcased a potent forward line featuring Premier League stars Isak (Newcastle) and Gyökeres (who has been in prolific form), alongside the midfield dynamism of Ayari. The performance signals strong intent from the Europeans, who qualified via playoffs and now sit atop Group F alongside upcoming matches against Japan and the Netherlands.
Match Stats Highlights
- Sweden: Dominant possession and chance creation, punishing Tunisia’s errors.
- Tunisia: Struggled defensively, especially against Sweden’s pace and direct play.
This result marks a confident start for Sweden in what promises to be a competitive group. Fans and pundits alike hailed the display as a statement win, with Ayari’s masterclass drawing particular praise.
Group F Table (after Matchday 1)
- Sweden: 3 pts (GD +4)
- Japan / Netherlands: TBD (drew or pending)
- Tunisia: 0 pts (GD -4)
Sweden will look to build on this momentum as the tournament progresses.
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