Sweden Faces Key Player Absences Ahead of Friendly Against Hungary

Sweden's friendly against Hungary sees key absences, raising tactical concerns for Tomasson's squad.

Key Points

  • • Key players like Gyökeres, Isak, and Kulusevski are absent from the squad.
  • • Jon Dahl Tomasson remains optimistic with players like Ayari and Elanga stepping in.
  • • Concerns about Sweden's defensive concentration linger despite recent improvements.
  • • The friendly match is expected to be high-scoring, with a suggestion for over 2.5 goals.

As Sweden prepares to face Hungary in a friendly match, head coach Jon Dahl Tomasson is confronting significant challenges due to notable player absences. Key players including Viktor Gyökeres, Alexander Isak, and Dejan Kulusevski will miss the encounter, with Tomasson optimistic about the squad's potential despite these setbacks. Players like Ayari, Elanga, Hien, and Hugo Larsson are set to feature prominently, as this match serves as a final preparation before the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Concerns over Sweden's defensive concentration have been raised, particularly with the uncertain status of Victor Nilsson Lindelöf. Throughout Tomasson’s tenure, there have been improvements in the team's overall condition, but lapses in defensive focus could be a significant issue against Hungary's formidable attacking lineup, which includes talents such as Dominik Szoboszlai and Filip Helander.

The match, scheduled for June 6, 2025, at Puskás Arena in Budapest, is expected to be lively, with a betting suggestion indicating over 2.5 goals might be scored, reflecting anticipations of a high-scoring affair despite the missing Swedish stars. This friendly presents an opportunity for Sweden to refine their tactics and give less experienced players a chance to shine in front of the coach before bigger competitions loom ahead.