Sweden's hopes of making the 2026 FIFA World Cup are almost over after a disastrous start to qualification.
Jon Dahl Tomasson's team have picked up just one point from their four Group B qualifiers after losing at home to Switzerland and Kosovo this month.
The Swedes sit bottom of the group, with two qualifiers left to play in November, and they can now only claim a playoff spot based on their final 2024/25 UEFA Nations League placing.
Four teams will make the playoffs from the Nations League, but Sweden will need several factors to go in their favour next month, to seal an alternate route to the tournament next summer.
The dire situation has now taken a fresh twist, with Tomasson sacked immediately after the Kosovo defeat in Gothenburg, and the Swedish FA hope to have a successor in place by the start of November.
"Tomasson's position is terminated with immediate effect. The decision is based on a lack of results in the World Cup qualifiers," an official statement confirmed.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
"We believe new leadership is required in the form of a new national team manager and staff."
The dismissal of Tomasson has also sharpened focus on Sweden's star players, including Liverpool's £125m man Alexander Isak, based on his lukewarm impact in qualification.
Alexander Isak loses Sweden captaincy race
Based on his lack of match sharpness, Tomasson only gave Isak 18 minutes off the bench in Kosovo across September's two games.
However, he started the two October matches, and registered just two shots on target across two 90 minutes and no goals.
Isak was replaced as captain in between the Switzerland and Kosovo games, as Victor Lindelof took the armband, and despite his anger over the situation, he's unlikely to be trusted as captain by the new boss.
"The responsibility lies with all of us, players included. We've been here a long time, I've been here a long time. I look at myself in the mirror. I demand more from myself first and foremost," he stated.
Up next for Sweden is a trip to Switzerland and a home tie with Slovenia as they wait to see if a playoff spot is on.
Liverpool news and related links
- Liverpool star admits 'I'm exhausted' after World Cup qualifier rescue act
- Premier League star sparks debate with surprising pick between Palmer and Wirtz
- Why Steven Gerrard said ‘no’ to Rangers despite being first choice