Tickets for Sweden's decisive World Cup playoff final against Poland at Strawberry Arena have sold out, with about 49,500 spectators expected. This comes after the team's 3-1 semifinal win over Ukraine, powered by Viktor Gyökeres' hat-trick. Players including Carl Starfelt voice excitement ahead of facing Robert Lewandowski.
Sweden's men's national football team faces Poland in a World Cup playoff final on Tuesday at 20.45 at Strawberry Arena in Solna. Tickets sold out following the 3-1 win over Ukraine in Valencia on Thursday, where Viktor Gyökeres scored a hat-trick.
The morning after the victory, tickets were gone, with around 49,500 spectators expected as Sweden chases a spot in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The arena's previous attendance record is 50,151.
Defender Carl Starfelt, who substituted in the 37th minute against Ukraine after Isak Hien's injury, rates his performance as his best for the national team so far. Hien left the squad on Saturday due to a serious thigh injury and will not be replaced.
Starfelt anticipates facing Poland's Robert Lewandowski: "A world-class striker you can't give chances to. Fun to measure up against one of the world's best players. He's not unstoppable in any way." He calls the event "incredibly mighty" and a chance to take Sweden to the World Cup despite prior doubts.
Viktor Gyökeres on Lewandowski: "It will be tough." Jesper Karlström praised the Swedish support in Valencia, with over 3,000 fans present.
Head coach Graham Potter gave the players nearly a full day off to recharge.
