Sweden's Coach Under Fire After Crucial World Cup Defeat
Sweden's World Cup hopes are in jeopardy after a 2-0 loss to Switzerland, leaving them at the bottom of Group B with just one point. Coach Jon Dahl Tomasson is facing intense criticism for his tactics.
“Tomasson must do something now. It is a blatant reason for dismissal that Elanga is still out there warming up...”
Sweden's World Cup hopes suffered a significant blow as the national team lost 2-0 to Switzerland in a crucial qualifying match. The defeat has sparked intense criticism, with many questioning coach Jon Dahl Tomasson's tactics.
Tomasson's substitutions, which included bringing on midfielders Anton Salétros and Daniel Svensson, as well as defender Emil Holm, were met with disapproval from Viaplay expert Bojan Djordjic. Djordjic was particularly critical of Tomasson's decision to delay introducing Newcastle's Anthony Elanga, stating that it was a “blatant reason for dismissal.”
The coach defended his approach, explaining that he wanted to keep fresh legs in different positions but didn't want to risk making early substitutions that could backfire. However, this approach didn't sit well with fans and pundits, who felt Sweden needed more attacking urgency.
The 2-0 loss leaves Sweden at the bottom of Group B with just one point from three games. Switzerland tops the group with nine points. Tomasson's future is now uncertain, with many calling for his resignation.
Djordjic strongly criticizes Tomasson's decision not to bring on Anthony Elanga despite the player's obvious eagerness to play, warming up on the sidelines for a substantial portion of the match. This decision has sparked intense debate, with many questioning the coach's tactics.
Djordjic's frustration is palpable, “Tomasson must do something now. It is a blatant reason for dismissal that Elanga is still out there warming up.” His comments highlight the perceived mismatch between Elanga's abilities and his role on the bench. In contrast, Tomasson's substitution strategy focused on introducing fresh legs, bringing on midfielders Anton Salétros and Daniel Svensson, and defender Emil Holm. The coach eventually gave Barcelona's Roony Bardghji a chance, but the move has done little to quell criticism surrounding Elanga's non-utilization.
“It is not substitutions that will change the outcome of the match, and especially not when you need a result. Then it is better to bet and go for it, and then lose 2-0. Now you're still going to lose 2-0 and be a coward at the same time,” said Djordjic.
Jon Dahl Tomasson opted against introducing Anthony Elanga earlier, seemingly satisfied with his team's approach and not feeling the need to shake things up by deploying the pace and skill Elanga brings. This decision suggests Tomasson prioritized caution over potential impact, sticking with his initial plan despite growing pressure and criticism.
“We wanted fresh legs in different positions. But we wanted to wait for the last replacement if something were to happen. If you change too early, you can end up in a situation where you have to play with ten men,” said Tomasson at the press conference after the game.
The defeat means that Sweden is last in Group B with just a single point after three games. Switzerland leads the group with nine points, while Kosovo is second with four points, followed by Slovenia with two points
𝗙𝗨𝗟𝗟𝗧𝗜𝗗
— Svensk Fotboll (@svenskfotboll) October 10, 2025
Förlust mot Schweiz i VM-kvalet
🇸🇪 0-2 🇨🇭 pic.twitter.com/dg1lcbAoHC
Group B Standings After Defeat
The 2-0 loss to Switzerland has left Sweden at the bottom of Group B standings.
Here's the current standings:
- Switzerland: 9 points
- Kosovo: 4 points
- Slovenia: 2 points
- Sweden: 1 point
Sweden's World Cup hopes are dwindling, and coach Jon Dahl Tomasson's tactics are under intense scrutiny.
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