The manager of the Swedish national team, Stefan Pettersson, told the GP website that he personally offered Ukrainian colleagues to hold the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff match with Ukraine in Sweden.
Stefan Pettersson (photo: Kenta Jönsson)— Did you inform Ukraine about the possibility of holding the match in Sweden?
— Yes, I said so. Now the ball is in their court, let’s see what they propose.
— What was the Ukrainian side’s reaction?
— Nothing specific, just that they currently have a lot to deal with and need to agree on the best decision. That’s understandable. I don’t want to speculate. We haven’t yet discussed this within the federation. We’ll deal with it as soon as possible.
— Ukraine didn’t say a categorical 'no'?
— They said nothing except that they are aware of this possibility. I hope they find an optimal solution. If they want to play in Sweden, we will not object. We must wait for their actions. They need to provide options—this is beyond our competence. Officially, the host must announce the venue four months before the match. It is worth understanding that the situation is not simple for Ukraine. If they are given a day or two more, it won’t seem strange.
— You will not protest?
— No, if it’s only a matter of a few days. But FIFA also cannot drag on. The planning is large-scale. But FIFA knows what it is doing.
