Viktor Gyokeres scored three times to secure a 3-1 win for Sweden against Ukraine in their World Cup play-off semi-final on Thursday. The Sporting striker opened the scoring in the first half before adding two further goals after the interval. The result means Sweden, managed by Graham Potter, are now one win away from qualifying for the 2026 tournament.
Potter's side dominated possession throughout the fixture at the Friends Arena. Ukraine briefly threatened a comeback when they reduced the deficit to 2-1, but Gyokeres completed his hat-trick late on to confirm the result, according to Sky Sports. Sweden will face the winner of the other semi-final path in a winner-takes-all final on Tuesday.
Elsewhere, Kosovo maintained their hopes of a debut World Cup appearance with a victory in their respective play-off fixture. Per Reuters reports, the Swedish national team is seeking its first major tournament qualification since 2018. The Swedish Football Association confirmed all players from the matchday squad are currently available for selection for the upcoming final.
