Viktor Gyokeres delivered when it mattered most, scoring a superb hat-trick as Sweden beat Ukraine 3-1 in Thursday’s World Cup playoff.
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The striker opened the scoring early, before adding two more after the break in a ruthless display. Gyokeres’ clinical finishing proved decisive in Valencia.
Rebrov and Potter praise Sweden star after dominant display
Ukraine boss Serhiy Rebrov admitted Gyokeres showed exactly why he is regarded as one of Europe’s most dangerous forwards right now.
Sweden coach Graham Potter also hailed the performance, praising not only the goals but his hold-up play too.
With Alexander Isak and Dejan Kulusevski absent, Gyokeres stepped up brilliantly when Sweden needed leadership and cutting edge most.
Ukraine grabbed a late consolation through youngster Matvii Ponomarenko, but their hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup ended in disappointment.
Sweden now advance to a decisive playoff clash against Poland on Tuesday, with a World Cup place on the line, reports ESPN.
Potter called the win a major step forward, but insisted Sweden’s job is not done heading into Tuesday’s high-stakes showdown.
For Ukraine, the defeat could also spell the end for Rebrov, whose contract is due to expire in two months.
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