The day after Sweden’s heaviest World Cup defeat in 76 years, the national team gathers outside Dallas. Players voice disappointment but stress that everything remains in their own hands ahead of the match against Japan.
Sweden lost 1–5 to the Netherlands at Houston Stadium on 20 June. Midfielder Jesper Karlström said the team feels ashamed of the result.
Karlström became the father of daughter Celine during the tournament. He has not yet met her and stays in touch via FaceTime. On Sunday the squad held a delayed Midsummer celebration with their families.
The next match against Japan takes place in Dallas at 01:00 Swedish time on Friday. Striker Viktor Gyökeres said the team must win that game to put itself in a good position again. According to The Athletic, Sweden has a 93 percent chance of advancing from the group.