When Alexander Isak finally stepped back onto a pitch after three months on the sidelines, Sweden’s hopes of a smooth start to the 2026 World Cup qualifier campaign were already on shaky ground. The 25‑year‑old striker entered the Stockholm match against Kosovo in the 72nd minute, replacing Newcastle United’s Anthony Elanga, but his brief cameo could not stave off a 2‑0 defeat that leaves the Scandinavians languishing in third place.

Why the match mattered

Sweden opened the qualifying round with a 0‑0 draw against Switzerland on September 8, 2024, then slipped to a surprise loss to the Kosovo national team on Monday night, October 7, 2024. The two points earned – a solitary point from the opening two fixtures – now sit five behind group‑leading Switzerland, who sit on nine points after three games. Kosovo, with three points, sit just a shade above Sweden, while Slovenia languishes at the bottom on goal difference.

Historical context: Isak’s journey to the national stage

Born on September 21, 1999, in Solna Municipality to Eritrean parents, AIK signed the prodigy to its youth ranks when he was just six. He burst onto the senior scene in 2016, becoming the youngest scorer in both AIK’s history and for the Sweden national team. After stints at Borussia Dortmund, Willem II and Real Sociedad, he landed in England with Newcastle United for a club‑record fee in 2022.

His time at St James’ Park was marked by flashes of brilliance – 27 Premier League goals in 85 appearances – but also growing frustration. At the start of the 2025‑26 season, Isak refused to train, alleging that manager Eddie Howe had broken a verbal promise to facilitate his exit during the summer window. The boycott sparked a media firestorm and saw the striker miss the first three months of competitive football.

The record‑breaking transfer to Liverpool

Negotiations simmered throughout the summer, climaxing on September 30, 2024, when Liverpool announced a £125 million fee for the Swedish star – a British transfer record and the most expensive signing in Liverpool’s history. In Swedish kronor, the fee translates to roughly 1.66 billion, shattering the previous national record for a Swedish player.

Late on Monday, Isak was presented by Liverpool Football Club at a press conference in London. He then boarded a private jet to Stockholm, touching down at Arlanda Airport just before midnight before joining the Swedish squad at a hotel near the national training centre.

Match details: Kosovo’s clinical edge

The match itself was a textbook case of a high‑pressing side exploiting a tired opponent. Kosovo’s first goal arrived in the 27th minute after a swift counter‑attack; midfielder Arbnor Muja fed forward Albert Sadiku, whose low shot slipped under Elanga’s outstretched hand.

Sweden pressed for an equaliser, forcing several saves from Kosovo’s keeper, but the Swedish back line, anchored by veteran defender Victor Lindelöf, left gaps that the Albanians later punished. In the 68th minute, Sadiku struck again, this time from a set‑piece, sealing the 2‑0 scoreline.

Isak’s introduction brought a burst of energy, but the three‑month layoff was evident. He managed a single touch before being forced off for fresh legs. The Swedish coach, Janne Andersson, made a late tactical shift, moving the Swedish formation from 4‑2‑3‑1 to a more compact 4‑4‑2, yet the damage was done.

Reactions: Media, fans, and the footballing fraternity

Swedish newspapers, including Sportbladet and Dagens Nyheter, were unkind. Headlines read “Isak’s costly silence” and “Transfer drama outweighs on‑field performance”. Analyst Lars Eriksson noted, “Three months without match‑sharpness is a huge hurdle – especially when you’re thrust into a high‑stakes qualifier.”

In Liverpool, the cheer was muted. Klopp’s deputy, Pepijn Lijnders, praised the player’s talent but warned, “He needs game time. The Premier League won’t wait.”

Fans on social media expressed mixed feelings. While many celebrated the record signing, others feared the move could backfire if the striker’s fitness does not improve quickly.

Looking ahead: What Sweden needs to do

With six matches remaining, Sweden must secure wins against Slovenia (home, October 12) and then face Switzerland away on November 16. The Scandinavian side also has a crucial clash with Denmark in March 2025. To climb out of the relegation zone, they’ll need at least six points from the next two games – a tall order.

Andersson hinted that Isak could start the next qualifier if his fitness improves, saying, “He’s a world‑class striker. If he’s ready, we’ll give him the chance.” The Swedish Football Association has reportedly arranged a tailored conditioning program, involving extra training sessions with Liverpool’s sports scientists during the international break.

Key facts

• Transfer fee: £125 million (≈1.66 billion SEK)
• Sweden’s current standing: 3rd, 1 point from 2 games
• Kosovo’s position: 2nd, 3 points
• Isak’s last competitive match: May 2024 (Premier League)
• Upcoming Sweden fixtures: Slovenia (Oct 12), Switzerland (Nov 16)