Isak and Gyokeres will soon have to stay home and watch the 2026 World Cup.

A major upset occurred in the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup when Kosovo unexpectedly defeated Sweden 1-0 in the fourth matchday of Group B.

"Super striker" Isak may have to stay home and watch the 2026 World Cup - Photo: REUTERS

Despite having two top attacking stars in Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres, Sweden were unable to score against their weaker opponent, Kosovo. Furthermore, they conceded a goal to Fisnik Asllani (Kosovo) in the 32nd minute, ultimately suffering a 0-1 defeat.

With this defeat, Sweden remains at the bottom of Group B with only 1 point after 4 matches. Sweden is now 9 points behind group leader Switzerland and has no chance of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The gap between them and second-placed Kosovo (the play-off position) is 6 points.

With their current points total, Sweden's chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup are very slim. Sweden's only hope now is to finish second in Group B to advance to the play-off round for the 2026 World Cup.

To achieve this, they would have to win their remaining two matches and hope that their rivals above them, such as Kosovo or Slovenia, drop points. This scenario is considered unlikely.

In other notable matches played in the early hours of October 14th: France drew 2-2 with Iceland, thus maintaining their lead in Group D with 10 points. Meanwhile, Germany defeated Northern Ireland 1-0 to pocket 9 points, topping Group A (level on points with Slovakia but ahead on goal difference).

The 2026 World Cup qualifiers in the European region feature 54 teams, divided into 12 groups. Teams compete in a two-legged format (home and away) to determine the 12 group winners who qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The 12 second-placed teams then advance to the play-off round to compete for the remaining 4 spots.

HOAI DU

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/isak-gyokeres-sap-phai-o-nha-xem-world-cup-2026-20251014054803472.htm