Sweden's dreams of playing at next year's World Cup are hanging by a thread after a devastating home defeat to Kosovo, leaving Alexander Isak's side on the brink of elimination. Following a previous loss to Switzerland, they desperately needed a win to keep their hopes alive for a top-two finish. Kosovo had already triumphed over Sweden in last month's international break and had the chance to extend their lead by six points with another victory, which they duly achieved.

The result leaves Sweden teetering on the edge with just one point, needing two wins to maintain any slim hopes of qualifying for the tournament in the United States. They also require Slovenia to drop points in November, but not against Kosovo, making their progression highly unlikely. Fisnik Asllani's winner proved decisive, with Kosovo successfully fending off a late barrage of attempts and corners. Over half of Sweden's total 13 shots on Monday evening came from Isak and Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres.

Arsenal's star player had one close-range shot saved and another narrowly missed the target. Isak, meanwhile, fired an impressive...