MONTERREY – In a display of football prowess, Yasin Ayari netted twice as Sweden showcased its credentials at the 2026 World Cup by decisively defeating Tunisia 5-1 on Sunday night, positioning themselves at the top of Group F.
Sweden’s Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres both contributed significantly with a goal and an assist each, while Mattias Svanberg added another goal. This victory is noteworthy for Sweden, which entered the tournament ranked 39th globally and had missed the 2022 World Cup after a commendable quarterfinal finish in 2018.
For Tunisia, ranked 45th, Omar Rekik managed to score, but the team has yet to advance beyond the group stage in its seven World Cup appearances.
Earlier on Sunday, the other two teams in the group, the Netherlands and Japan, played to a thrilling 2-2 draw in Arlington, Texas.
Ayari’s goals, both long-range efforts, came in the seventh minute and in stoppage time of the second half. His first goal was celebrated with restraint, as he raised his hands in a gesture of respect for his father’s home country.
Isak’s 18th international goal arrived in the 30th minute. Receiving a pass from Gyökeres during a swift counterattack, he skillfully maneuvered inside and fired a low shot past Tunisian goalkeeper Mouhib Chamakh.
After Rekik’s goal in the 43rd minute temporarily halted Sweden’s momentum, Isak and Gyökeres quickly restored control. Isak regained possession and assisted Gyökeres, who easily converted for his 16th goal in his last 15 matches for Sweden.
Sweden’s coach, Graham Potter, praised the strong chemistry between Isak and Gyökeres, noting the importance of a well-functioning team behind them. “I’m pleased for the players tonight that we took a step forward in that,” he remarked.
Svanberg capped off the scoring in the 84th minute, with the goal confirmed after a lengthy video review.
Looking ahead, Sweden is set to face the Netherlands in Houston next Saturday, while Tunisia will remain in Monterrey to take on Japan on the same day.
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Ethan Wilcox is a student in the University of Georgia’s Carmical Sports Media Institute.
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AP World Cup: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-world-cup
