Sweden qualified for the World Cup after eight years following their 3-2 victory over Poland in the play-off final in Stockholm yesterday.
Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres had a stellar outing in the play-off semi-final, scoring a hat-trick in the 3-1 win over Ukraine in Valencia.
He had a much quieter outing against Poland last night, but ultimately made the difference with an 88th-minute winner for Sweden.
Gyokeres was in the right place at the right time to capitalise on a rebound to book his country’s spot at the World Cup in North America.
Aside from his goal, Gyokeres had 23 touches with 10 passes. He won four duels and made three recoveries for Graham Potter’s side.
Gyokeres was kept quiet by Poland’s defence, which included Arsenal ace Jakub Kiwior, but he eventually stole the headlines at the death.
The 27-year-old scored with his only shot on goal on the night and was handed a 4/5 rating from Aftonbladet for his match-winner.
The reputed outlet said Gyokeres struggled, but grabbed his only chance to send Sweden to the World Cup and become the country’s hero.
AftonBladet wrote: “Hard courted by the Polish defenders. Didn’t get off the ground as much as against Ukraine, but was blocked and struggled.
“Again important in the target game where he caught a lot of balls and dropped many free kicks.
“But when Gyokeres got his chance, he smashed the ball into the night sky and shot blue and yellow to the World Cup. All of Sweden’s Hero.”
Gyokeres has been in fine form for club and country since January. He scored a crucial winning goal against Everton in the Premier League this month.
The Swede did not find the back of the net against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, but it was one of his best displays in terms of distribution.
The striker had no clear-cut chances in the Carabao Cup final loss to Manchester City, and he will be aiming to end the season on a strong note with Arsenal.
Gyokeres netted four goals during the international break. Hopefully, he can carry forward his fine scoring form and help the Gunners end their two-decade-long wait for the league title.
The Gunners are also alive in the FA Cup and Champions League. While the league is the utmost priority, the club still have the chance to win a treble this term.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com