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Swedish media give honest verdict on Viktor Gyokeres’ latest international performance

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Arsenal’s squad are continuing to impress for their national sides as games come thick and fast around the globe.

Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino impressed for Spain during their first 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier as the duo produced a goal and an assist between them in a resounding 3-0 win over Bulgaria.

The Italian media lauded Riccardo Calafiori as he continued his excellent start to the season by inspiring his country to a thumping 5-0 victory over Estonia.

Viktor Gyokeres is a player under the spotlight following an indifferent start to his career at the Gunners and he was in action for Sweden against Benjamin Sesko’s Slovenia.

READ MORE: Alex Iwobi says he played with a defender at Arsenal who was an even smarter footballer than Mesut Ozil

Viktor Gyokeres in action during Slovenia v Sweden in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
Photo by MB Media/Getty Images

Swedish media impressed with Viktor Gyokeres’ strength during FIFA World Cup qualifier

Sweden opened their bid to qualify for next summer’s World Cup with a 2-2 draw away at Slovenia, however, will be frustrated after conceding a 90th minute equaliser.

Newcastle forward Anthony Elanga put the Swedes in front before being pegged back just after half time. Gyokeres then produced an assist for Brighton’s Yasin Ayari to score what looked like the winning goal.

However, former Arsenal transfer target Sesko was involved in the build up to the equaliser scored by Swansea City forward Zan Vipotnik to salvage a point for Slovenia.

Slovenia v Sweden match statisticsViktor Gyokeres
Minutes played90
Touches47
Assists1
Passing accuracy65%
Successful dribble attempts1/3
Total shots0
Viktor Gyokeres’ match statistics v Slovenia via Sofascore

Swedish media outlet Fotbollskanalen gave their player ratings after the match and were impressed with the strength that Gyokeres showed throughout the match.

They wrote: “Very strong when the ball came and held off and set up the ball for Ayari who scored. Strong, tough, and loyal, and did a tremendous job. Often had two opponents on him. Approved.”

Mikel Arteta will like what Viktor Gyokeres offered for Sweden

Mikel Arteta has left Gyokeres isolated during his first two away matches at Arsenal in particular, however, the Gunners boss will be pleased to read about his striker’s hold up play for his country.

It is a facet of his game that will need improving at Arsenal and in the Premier League to cope with the physicality of the division.

Viktor Gyokeres in action during Liverpool v Arsenal in the Premier League clash.
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Ultimately, Gyokeres has been bought to score goals for the club, but he will also need to play a part in the build up for the side and bringing others into play.

Providing an assist for Sweden by holding off defenders and playing in his teammate will be music to the ears of the likes of Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard.