World Cup star bamboozled by FIFA’s controversial new format

News

Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Accredited sports journalist covering football since 2020

Sweden forward Anthony Elanga initially thought his side were eliminated from the World Cup on Thursday evening despite their progression to the round of 32 after a 1-1 draw versus Japan.

Graham Potter’s side booked their place in the knockout stages thanks to a spirited performance against an excellent Japan side, with Elanga scoring a 62nd minute equaliser after Celtic striker Daizen Maeda had opened the scoring.

The result means Sweden finished third in Group F, although they have already qualified for the round of 32 by virtue of being one of the best third-placed teams after amassing four points from their three group stage fixtures.

They secured a thumping 5-1 victory over Tunisia in their opening fixture of the tournament, before being defeated by Netherlands by the same scoreline and then earning a draw against Japan.

As a result, they will likely play the winners of Group I in New York on Tuesday - either France or Norway - although there is a chance they may face Germany in Boston on Monday instead depending on other results.

Anthony Elanga confused by new World Cup format

Sweden went into their final group stage fixture knowing that a draw would be enough to secure progression via the best third-placed teams route, but the aforementioned Elanga forgot this was the case.

The Nottingham Forest winger was evidently bamboozled by FIFA’s new format as he slumped to the ground at full-time and was seen thumping the ground in frustration, completely unaware that Sweden had qualified for the round of 32.

Instead, he thought his nation were heading home.

When told about the incident during his post-match press conference, Potter said: “That explains a few things then!

“It can’t be any clearer. It couldn’t have been clearer for him so he’s obviously thinking about something else. Bless him.

“I love him at the moment, but dear me.”