In Graham Potter's first match as Sweden's coach, the team lost 1–4 to Switzerland in the World Cup qualifier in Geneva. Despite a strong start, the game collapsed after a controversial penalty. Second place in the group is now out of reach, with Sweden focusing on the March playoff.
The match at Stade de Genève on November 15, 2025, marked the start of a new era for the Swedish men's national team under English coach Graham Potter. Sweden, missing key players like Alexander Isak, Victor Nilsson Lindelöf, and Viktor Gyökeres in the starting lineup, fielded Viktor Johansson in goal, a back four of Emil Holm, Gustaf Lagerbielke, Isak Hien, and Daniel Svensson, midfielders Alexander Bernhardsson, Jesper Karlström, Yasin Ayari, and Anthony Elanga. Up front were Mattias Svanberg and Benjamin Nygren.
Switzerland took the lead after just twelve minutes through Breel Embolo, who headed in 1–0 from a cross. Sweden responded strongly and equalized via Nygren, who now has three goals in seven A-internationals, four of them starts. It was Sweden's first goal in the World Cup qualifiers since the opener against Slovenia.
Level at halftime, but the turning point came a quarter into the second half. A sloppy mistake led to a penalty for Switzerland, converted by captain Granit Xhaka for 2–1. Potter called the penalty 'cheap' and said the second goal greatly affected the match. 'The first half is good. We grow into the game and have a big chance to make it 2–1. But we get a bit stretched out, and we're facing a good team,' Potter said afterward.
Switzerland then dominated, scoring three goals in the final half-hour to end 4–1. Expert Mikael Lustig saw bright spots: 'In the first hour, I sat feeling: This is a pretty good away game against a good team. Before the 2–1 goal, I think Sweden does it strongly, with clear ideas in defensive play.' He emphasized, however: 'Can't afford such mistakes.'
The loss means Sweden can no longer reach second place in the group, despite a slim chance beforehand. The playoff spot is secured via the Nations League, and the next match is at home against Slovenia on Tuesday. Columnist Johan Esk described it as a bad pass causing the balance to collapse like a house of cards, despite Potter's emphasis on balance.