Gyokeres strikes late as Sweden edge Poland to qualify for World Cup

Sweden beat Poland 3-2 to book their ticket to the World Cup on Tuesday, as Viktor Gyokeres struck two minutes from time to decide a frantic qualification playoff final.

Anthony Elanga's opener for Sweden was cancelled out by Nicola Zalewski’s equaliser but Gustaf Lagerbielke’s 44th-minute strike restored the hosts' advantage and ensured they entered the break ahead.

Despite Karol Swiderski drawing the visitors level again shortly after the interval, Gyokeres capitalised on a late goalmouth scramble to side-foot home the winner.

The result earned Sweden spot in Group F for the 2026 World Cup alongside the Netherlands, Japan and Tunisia, marking their first appearance at the tournament since 2018.