Eighteen months ago, Gustav Svensson couldn’t have even imagined this. But on Monday in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, Svensson made his World Cup debut as Sweden defeated South Korea 1-0 in the opening round of Group F in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Svensson came on as a substitute in the 81st minute for Sebastian Larsson and helped the Blågult to a massive three points in a group that also features Mexico and world No. 1 and defending World Cup champion Germany. Svensson earned his 14th cap after making four appearances during World Cup Qualifying and improbably helping Sweden secure their first World Cup spot since 2006.
Svensson and Sweden will be back in action for the second group match against Germany at Fisht Stadium in Sochi on Saturday, June 23, at 11 a.m. PT.