Potter denies Sweden are favorites against Tunisia in World Cup debut

Graham Potter, the coach of the Swedish national football team, rejected the notion that his squad is the favorite heading into their World Cup 2026 debut against Tunisia. Potter stated that external perceptions of favoritism are not a focus for the team, emphasizing the importance of playing with respect and maintaining team composure.

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We are focused on our composure as a team, we respect Tunisia, we know they qualified undefeated and we respect that.

"We are focused on our composure as a team, we respect Tunisia, we know they qualified undefeated and we respect that," Potter said ahead of the match. He also countered the idea that Tunisia is the weakest team in Group F, which also includes the Netherlands and Japan. Potter revealed that his team has thoroughly researched Tunisia's playing style, noting their defensive robustness, compact formation, and effective pressing.

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We have done a great investigation into Tunisia's playing style; they are robust in defense, we have seen their records, they have a compact team, they close down the pitch well, they have a combination of experience and youth, so we do not see them as the underdogs.

"We have done a great investigation into Tunisia's playing style; they are robust in defense, we have seen their records, they have a compact team, they close down the pitch well, they have a combination of experience and youth, so we do not see them as the underdogs," he explained. Regarding the adaptation to Monterrey's hot climate, Potter acknowledged its potential impact but expressed confidence in the team's readiness, citing the planned hydration breaks as a key measure.

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The climate and humidity level will be preponderant because it is variable. We know that the exchange periods will allow us to adapt to all of it. My players are ready and prepared to go out on the field.

Sweden's captain, Victor Lindelöf, also spoke about the team's preparation, focusing on correcting recent errors to ensure a successful tournament opener. "We are not going to say what we have practiced, but I can say that we have a lot to improve, we know what they will want to do when we have possession of the ball. We are confident in how we have prepared and the game plan we are going to implement," Lindelöf stated. The 31-year-old defender also reflected on the honor of captaining Sweden in a World Cup, calling it a "great responsibility" and an "incredible feeling."

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We are not going to say what we have practiced, but I can say that we have a lot to improve, we know what they will want to do when we have possession of the ball. We are confident in how we have prepared and the game plan we are going to implement.