Sweden Advances in World Cup Playoffs with Hat-Trick from Gokeres
VALENCIA, Spain – Ukraine’s head coach, Serhiy Rebrov, recognized Viktor Gokeres as one of Europe’s elite after the Swedish striker netted a hat-trick in the World Cup playoffs at the Ciutat de Valencia Stadium on Thursday. Gokeres showcased his exceptional talent, scoring three goals that propelled Sweden to a decisive 3-1 victory over Ukraine.
Gokeres opened the scoring early and extended his tally with two additional goals in the second half. This victory places Sweden in a crucial qualifying match against Poland on Tuesday, where they will vie for a spot in this summer’s World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Despite a late surge from Ukraine, highlighted by young Matvy Ponomarenko, the team fell short, missing out on their first World Cup appearance since 2006. Rebrov expressed his disappointment during the post-match press conference, emphasizing Gokeres’ pivotal role in the match.
“Gokeres played exceptionally well and made the difference tonight,” Rebrov noted. “His performance illustrates why he plays for Arsenal and highlights his status as one of Europe’s top strikers.”
With Alexander Isak and Dejan Kulusevski unavailable, Gokeres rose to the occasion, scoring in the sixth minute following a cross from Benjamin Nygren. This was particularly noteworthy as he had not found the back of the net in World Cup qualifying until Thursday. He followed this with a powerful goal after connecting with a long pass from goalkeeper Christopher Nordfeldt. Gokeres sealed his hat-trick with a penalty that he earned himself, earning praise from his coach, Graham Potter.
“Victor’s performance was outstanding,” Potter commented. “Scoring a hat-trick is impressive, but his hold-up play and defensive contributions were integral as well.” He added, “Before the match, I would have told him to go get a hat-trick, but the team’s collective effort was what truly stood out.”
Potter, who is in his third match as Sweden’s manager, celebrated his first qualifying win after a challenging stint in the Nations League where Sweden failed to secure victories in their six group games. Looking ahead, he reiterated the importance of regrouping for their upcoming match against Poland.
“Tonight marks significant progress,” Potter stated. “The team displayed cohesion and resilience, adjusting well against a competent opponent. However, we have another match to prepare for. The job is not complete as we face a formidable Polish team on Tuesday.”
For Ukraine, this loss marked a disappointing end to their World Cup aspirations. It could also signal a turning point for Rebrov, whose contract expires in two months. “As of now, my contract ends in two months, and I have not received a renewal proposal from the Ukrainian Football Association,” he revealed. “The situation will become clearer in the coming months.”
