Monterrey, June 15: Sweden head coach Graham Potter praised the growing partnership between star forwards Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres after their impressive display in Sweden's emphatic 5-1 victory over Tunisia in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F match.
Both Isak and Gyokeres found the back of the net while constantly troubling Tunisia's defense throughout the contest. Their chemistry proved crucial as Sweden secured one of the most convincing wins of the tournament's opening round.
Speaking after the match, Potter highlighted the attacking duo's ability to complement each other's strengths.
"Individually, of course, they are top players but I think together they can be a real threat. I think they'll get better and better the more they play; they complement each other very well," Potter said.
Sweden Make Flying Start to World Cup Campaign
Sweden wasted little time asserting their dominance and controlled the game from the opening whistle. Midfielder Yasin Ayari opened the scoring in the 18th minute after Tunisia goalkeeper Mouhib Chamakh misjudged a long clearance from Victor Lindelof.
Chamakh's error allowed Ayari to capitalize on a loose ball and fire into an empty net from distance, giving Sweden an early lead.
The Scandinavian side doubled their advantage just before the half-hour mark through Alexander Isak. Viktor Gyokeres played a key role in the move, releasing Isak on a rapid counterattack before the Newcastle United striker calmly finished past Chamakh.
Tunisia Fight Back Before Half-Time
Tunisia managed to reduce the deficit shortly before the break when Omar Rekik rose highest to head home a precise cross delivered by Hannibal Mejbri.
The goal gave the Eagles of Carthage renewed hope heading into halftime and briefly raised expectations of a second-half comeback.
Isak and Gyokeres Seal Comfortable Victory
Any hopes of a Tunisian revival disappeared after the restart as Sweden quickly regained control of the match.
On the hour mark, Isak capitalized on a defensive mistake by Tunisia captain Ellyes Skhiri before setting up Gyokeres, who clinically finished from close range to restore Sweden's two-goal advantage.
The goal continued Gyokeres' remarkable scoring streak for the national team, taking his tally to 15 goals in his last 16 international appearances.
Substitute Mattias Svanberg later added a fourth goal with a composed finish inside the penalty area, while Ayari completed his brace with a stunning long-range strike to cap an outstanding team performance.
Potter Delighted with Team Display
Potter expressed satisfaction with the overall performance, emphasizing that Sweden's attacking stars benefited from a well-functioning team structure.
"I'm really pleased with the players. We know the quality of the individuals in the front positions but they needed a team to function. We weren't perfect; we knew we wouldn't be. But at the start of the game I thought we had good control," Potter said.
The comprehensive victory gives Sweden a perfect start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ahead of a crucial Group F encounter against the Netherlands, who played out a 2-2 draw with Japan in their opening fixture.
Tunisia, meanwhile, face increased pressure as they prepare for a must-win clash against Japan in their next group-stage match.
