Alexander Isak has been in fine form for Sweden at the World Cup, but the Liverpool striker could be facing an early exit from the tournament if his country fails to beat Japan in the final group game
Bruna Reis
11:14, 25 Jun 2026
Alexander Isak has enjoyed himself at the World Cup
Alexander Isak has enjoyed himself at the World Cup(Image: Getty Images)
Alexander Isak faces the prospect of an early departure from the World Cup should Sweden fail to overcome Japan in Group F — although elimination would still bring a financial windfall.
Members of the national squad are understood to pocket between 15 and 20 percent of the Swedish FA's net World Cup earnings. Isak was instrumental in Sweden's commanding victory over Tunisia in the team's opener, netting once and laying on two assists.
The Liverpool forward also teed up Anthony Elanga in the second outing, though Graham Potter's players were hammered 5-1 by the Netherlands on Saturday. Having featured from the start in both fixtures, Isak has appeared in fine fettle and will be eager to maintain that momentum heading into his country's make-or-break final group encounter.
It's essentially win-or-bust for Potter's outfit — even victory may prove insufficient unless the Netherlands dispatches Tunisia.
An early departure would leave players with roughly £23,000 ($30,000) from the competition, according to Swedish publication Sportbladet. Yet they will pocket thousands more if they can progress to the knockout stages.
Liverpool supporters have been heartened by his performances after the striker suffered a challenging debut season at Anfield, hampered by fitness concerns and injury setbacks.
Isak needs a big season at Liverpool
Isak needs a big season at Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)
One fan commented on X: "If Isak can stay fit and we get the wingers to accommodate him, we're hitting 25 G/As next season."
Another remarked: "Isak is an elite level footballer. Looks so sharp.
"Keep him fit and Liverpool can win anything."
A third declared: "Isak is ridiculous man.
"We're going to make movies under Iraola next season."
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An early return to fitness could prove invaluable for Liverpool as the Reds look to put last season's difficulties behind them.
It would also represent a boost for Andoni Iraola should Isak maintain that level of performance in the upcoming campaign.
Isak managed just four goals in a season that was disrupted by a four-month absence with a broken leg — an injury sustained in a challenge with Micky van de Ven after netting in Liverpool's 2-1 victory at Tottenham in December.