The nation’s media outlets offered their verdict after Alexander Isak captained Sweden for the first time.
Liverpool forward Isak and Arsenal marksman Viktor Gyokeres could not prevent the Swedes from slumping to a disappointing 2-0 World Cup qualifier defeat to Switzerland in Stockholm on Friday (October 10).
Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka put the away side in front from the penalty spot on 65 minutes before Freiburg’s Johan Manzambi sealed the Swiss’ victory in second-half stoppage time.
Gyokeres and Isak will want to quickly forget their performances, with both men failing to register a single shot on target between them.
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The 26-year-old Reds forward came close to scoring in the first half when Spurs man Lucas Bergvall teed him up, Isak had just the ‘keeper to beat, but his left-footed strike smacked the post before being cleared by Switzerland’s defence.
On another occasion, Isak returned the favour by playing Bergvall in, but the 19-year-old fluffed his lines despite having most of the goal to aim at from close range.
Loud boos could be heard from the stands of the Strawberry Arena, with a section of supporters even unfurling an offensive banner aimed at Danish head coach Jon Dahl Tomasson, calling for his resignation.
Of course, there is a rivalry between the two Scandinavian nations and his appointment was met was negativity from some supporters.
After the match, Sweden’s right-back Emil Holm expressed his disgust at the banner and claimed that “things like that shouldn’t be allowed to happen”.
Meanwhile, Isak spoke out and suggested that “no one benefits from being divided”.
But what did the Swedish media make of Gyokeres' showing and Isak’s performance in his new leadership role?
Fotbollskanalen issued Gyokeres with a 1/5 rating for his showing, writing: “Sweden needed Gyokeres at the top of his game in the important World Cup qualifying match. But he didn’t get it in crucial situations.”
The outlet was give Isak a 2/5 for his efforts, adding: “Missed a huge chance when the ball hit the post. Nice run when he got free and selflessly passed to Bergvall and should have gotten an assist.”
Expressen explained that Isak was “quick in the flesh – and in the head” when referring to his match fitness, but did note that he tired later in the game.
Meanwhile, Svenska Fans gave Isak a brutal 1/5 rating: “Today’s team captain. Ran on many balls.
“Had a shot in the post that was worth a better fate. Then won a duel and then came free at the end of the first act. However, did not succeed very often with his actions.”
Last night’s result left Sweden bottom of Group B on one point from three games.
Topics: Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyokeres, Sweden, Football
Luke Davies