Alexander Isak's Sweden are in World Cup action against Japan in the early hours of Friday morning, still hoping to secure a place in the round of 32
Alexander Isak
Alexander Isak could emerge as Sweden's hero(Image: Getty Images)
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Alexander Isak could be facing an early flight home from the World Cup if Sweden fail to beat Japan in Group F - though an exit would still come with a financial bonus. Players in the national squad are reportedly set to receive between 15 and 20 per cent of the Swedish FA's net World Cup profit.
The striker played a major role in Sweden's emphatic win over Tunisia in their opening match, scoring once and providing two assists. He also set up Anthony Elanga in their second game, though Graham Potter's side were thrashed 5-1 by the Netherlands on Saturday.
Having started both matches, the Liverpool star has looked sharp and will hope to carry that form into their decisive final group fixture. It is essentially do‑or‑die for Potter's team - even if they win, they will still need the Netherlands to beat Tunisia.
An early exit will leave players with only around £23,000 from the tournament, according to Swedish outlet Sportbladet.
Liverpool fans have been encouraged by his displays after the striker endured a difficult maiden campaign at Anfield, plagued by fitness and injury issues. One fan said on X: "If Isak can stay fit and we get the wingers to accommodate him, we're hitting 25 G/As next season."
A second added: "Isak is an elite level footballer. Looks so sharp. Keep him fit and Liverpool can win anything," while a third stated: "Isak is ridiculous man. We're going to make movies under Iraola next season."
Another concluded: "Some of his passing and link up, exceptional. Looks really fresh hopefully can just stay fit throughout this tournament and ready for pre season."
An early return may benefit Liverpool as they look to put last year's struggles behind them. It would also be welcome news for Andoni Iraola if Isak can maintain that level of form heading into next season.
Isak scored just four goals in a campaign that included a four‑month lay‑off with a broken leg - an injury he suffered in a challenge with Micky van de Ven after scoring in Liverpool's 2-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur on December 20.
He is yet to justify the £125 million British‑record move from Newcastle United to Anfield last September.
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