Anthony Elanga replaced a red-hot Alexander Isak in the dying embers of Sweden’s convincing World Cup win over Tunisia.
Anthony Elanga came on for the final few seconds as Sweden thrashed Tunisia 5-1 in their World Cup opener.
Elanga has been a regular starter for his national side since earning a maiden cap in 2022. However, a shift in system for Graham Potter - with Sweden now playing 3-4-1-2 - is not ideal for the Newcastle United winger.
He also suffered a minor contact injury following the warm-up clash with Greece last week. As for Sweden, they will care little as Potter’s men stormed to the top of Group F in convincing fashion.
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Is Alexander Isak back?
With Elanga settling for stoppage-time minutes from the bench, the night had already been an awkward watch for Newcastle fans. Alexander Isak - the detested former striker - scooped the Player of the Match award for his goal and two assists.
Isak’s first-half strike was reminiscent of his Newcastle form as he collected the ball from deep on the left flank before charging forward and rifling into the bottom corner. Toon supporters enjoyed a successful hate-watch last season and will be hoping this is not a sign of things to come at Liverpool.
Graham Potter toasts Sweden win
Sweden boss Potter singled out Isak and Viktor Gyokeres - who bagged a brace - for praise at the full-time whistle. He told reporters: “I think it was a fantastic evening for us, a fantastic start. A solid performance that allowed Alex and Viktor to show their qualities, which they did. We were defensively solid, got goals from midfield and had good substitutions.
“I’m happy for the players. They’ve worked hard in recent weeks and made strides. All credit to them. As a coach, you know when the team is developing, but you also have to win. We weren’t perfect, but we knew we wouldn’t be.
“I was a little disappointed with the goal we conceded, but that’s what can happen. We were mature in the second half, especially considering we lack experience in the World Cup.”
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