Sweden coach Graham Potter urges team to play 'match of their lives' against France

Sweden’s national football team manager Graham Potter said the squad must deliver a "match of their lives" if they hope to eliminate world vice‑champions France in the upcoming round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, which will be played in New York.

Potter praised the French side, stating, "I am not sure the word 'weakness' can be used for anything in this French team. They have exceptional performers in every line." He added, "We need to be close to perfection, to play the match of our lives, if we want to win."

Sweden entered the tournament with a 5‑1 win over Tunisia, a 1‑5 loss to the Netherlands and a 1‑1 draw with Japan, and defender Viktor Lindelöf expressed confidence that the team can challenge any opponent.