Sweden’s Winless Qualifying Campaign Ends With Slovenia Draw

Sweden concluded a historically disappointing FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Slovenia at the Friends Arena on Tuesday. The result confirms the first winless qualifying cycle in the nation’s history, a stark contrast to Slovenia’s own finish after they had already been eliminated.

The point, secured by a late equalizer, at least prevented a fifth consecutive defeat and offered a minor positive in what was Graham Potter’s first home match as manager.

Promising Start Fades

Sweden began with intent in front of their home supporters. An early chance fell to Gustav Lundgren, whose driven shot from the edge of the box sailed just over the crossbar.

The initial momentum, however, failed to translate into a sustained threat. Slovenia grew into the half and created the best opportunity before the break. Žan Karničnik forced a save from Swedish goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström with a powerful strike, underscoring the defensive vulnerabilities that have plagued Sweden throughout the qualifying round.

Slovenia Punishes Swedish Profligacy

Missing key attackers Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres, Sweden struggled for a cutting edge in the second half. Their wayward shooting was punished just after the hour mark.

A well-worked Slovenian move ended with Andraž Šporar cutting the ball back into the path of Timi Max Elšnik, who applied a neat finish to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.

The goal sparked a response from the hosts, who began to create clearer chances. Defender Carl Starfelt saw his headed attempt float inches over the bar, and shortly after, Isac Lidberg forced Slovenian goalkeeper Igor Vekić into his first meaningful save of the match with another header from a set-piece.

Late Leveler Offers Minor Consolation

Sweden’s persistence finally paid off as the match entered its final stages. From a set-piece, Gustaf Lagerbielke flicked the ball towards the back post where an unmarked Gustav Lundgren volleyed it home to level the score.

The draw provides Sweden with their first point under Potter and avoids another defeat, but it does little to mask the problems of a campaign that yielded zero wins. The team must now regroup for the play-offs next spring in a final attempt to reach the World Cup. For Slovenia, the result concludes another failed qualifying effort, marking the fourth consecutive time they have not reached the finals.