Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres scored a hat-trick as Sweden beat Ukraine 3-1 to book a World Cup play-off final against Poland.
Gyokeres, who started up front for Graham Potter’s side with Alexander Isak injured, met a Benjamin Nygren cross just six minutes into the contest.
The forward, who has 16 goals in all competitions for the Premier League title-chasing Gunners, struck again shortly after the break (51) when he caught Ukraine goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin by surprise, before winning and scoring a penalty in the 71st minute to settle the match.
Ukraine grabbed a consolation goal through Matviy Ponomarenko in the 90th minute but the contest was long won and the final whistle saw the travelling Swedish fans celebrate wildly as they seized a final chance of a World Cup berth.
Sweden will now play Poland on March 31 for a place at this summer’s tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
Poland came from behind to beat Albania 2-1, with Robert Lewandowski and Piotr Zielinski netting second-half goals to set up next week’s decider.
Arber Hoxha put Albania ahead three minutes from the break but their bid to reach their first World Cup ended in Warsaw as Poland maintained their perfect play-off record, having qualified for the last World Cup and Euro 2024 by the same route.
Lewandowski levelled with a header at the back post from a corner in the 63rd minute and 10 minutes later Zielinski smashed a first-time shot from outside the area into the corner of the net, keeping Poland on course for a third consecutive finals appearance.
Ian Wright praises Viktor Gyokeres
Ian Wright has lavished praise on Viktor Gyökeres after the prolific forward delivered a sensational hat-trick for Sweden national football team in their emphatic victory over Ukraine national football team yesterday.
Gyökeres, who has been enjoying a remarkable run of form at both club and international level, once again proved why he is quickly becoming one of Europe’s most feared strikers. His clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and physical presence were on full display as he tore through Ukraine’s defense, scoring three well-taken goals that underlined his growing reputation.
Following the match, Wright did not hold back in his admiration for the Swedish forward. The former Arsenal striker highlighted Gyökeres’ all-round performance, emphasizing not just the goals but the way he dominated defenders and created problems throughout the game. Wright noted that performances like this are what separate top strikers from the rest, especially on the international stage where opportunities can often be limited.
What impressed Wright the most was Gyökeres’ composure in front of goal. Each of his three strikes showcased a different aspect of his finishing ability—power, precision, and awareness. From a well-timed run to latch onto a through ball, to a composed finish under pressure, and finally a decisive strike that completed his hat-trick, Gyökeres demonstrated the complete package of a modern number nine.
The hat-trick also comes at a time when Gyökeres is attracting widespread attention across Europe. His performances have sparked conversations about his potential impact at the highest level, with many believing he has what it takes to become one of the elite forwards in the game. Wright echoed this sentiment, suggesting that if Gyökeres continues on this trajectory, he could soon be regarded among the very best in his position.
For Sweden, the performance was a statement of intent. Having a striker in such devastating form gives the team a significant advantage, particularly in crucial fixtures. Gyökeres’ ability to lead the line, hold up play, and convert chances makes him a central figure in their attacking setup. Wright pointed out that having a reliable goal scorer can transform a team’s prospects, especially in tightly contested matches.
The game against Ukraine was expected to be a challenging encounter, but Gyökeres’ brilliance ensured that Sweden maintained control. His goals not only secured the victory but also boosted the team’s confidence moving forward. Wright praised the forward’s mentality, noting that stepping up in important matches is a hallmark of great players.
Beyond the goals, Gyökeres’ work rate and determination also drew praise. Wright highlighted how the striker consistently pressed defenders, tracked back when necessary, and remained involved in the build-up play. This level of commitment, combined with his natural goal-scoring instincts, makes him a valuable asset for both club and country.
As discussions continue about his future and potential, performances like this hat-trick will only strengthen Gyökeres’ case as one of the most exciting forwards in world football today. Wright’s praise reflects a growing consensus among pundits and fans alike—that Gyökeres is not just in form, but on the verge of something truly special.
If he maintains this level of performance, the Swedish striker could be set for an even bigger stage, with more memorable nights like this one surely on the horizon.