Sweden Faces Setback as Isak Hien Exits FIFA World Cup Due to Injury

Sweden's FIFA World Cup campaign has been severely impacted by the injury of defender Isak Hien, who will miss the remainder of the tournament. The 27-year-old sustained a hamstring injury during a match against Japan, forcing coach Graham Potter to make significant adjustments to the team's lineup ahead of their knockout clash with France. The Swedish Football Association confirmed the news, expressing disappointment for Hien and pledging support during his recovery. This injury comes at a critical time as Sweden aims to advance further in the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 27, 2026, 14:21 IST

Major Injury Blow for Sweden Ahead of Knockout Stage

File image of Isak Hien(Photo: @WwwFootballnews/X)

Vancouver, June 27: Sweden's hopes in the FIFA World Cup have taken a significant hit as defender Isak Hien has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.

The 27-year-old sustained the injury during Sweden's recent 1-1 draw against Japan, a result that allowed Graham Potter's team to advance to the knockout stage as one of the eight best third-placed teams.

On Saturday, the Swedish Football Association (SvFF) announced that Hien would not continue in the World Cup and would return to his club for rehabilitation.

National team doctor Jonas Werner stated, "Isak has suffered a left hamstring injury severe enough to prevent him from participating further in the World Cup."

He added, "He will head back to his club, and this injury will keep him away from football for a while."

With Hien's absence, Sweden will face France in the knockout round without one of their key defenders, prompting Potter to adjust his defensive lineup for this critical match.

The coach expressed his disappointment for Hien and assured that the team would fully support him during his recovery process.

"It's unfortunate for him to end the World Cup this way due to injury, and we will do everything we can to support him," Potter remarked.

"It's a tough situation, but I believe he will return even stronger."

Hien's injury occurred while he was attempting to block a cross from Yukinari Sugawara in the penalty area, leading to his substitution. He was replaced by 20-year-old Lucas Bergvall from Tottenham Hotspur, while captain Victor Lindelof shifted to central defense to fill Hien's position. The first half of the match was marked by a lack of attacking opportunities, with both teams managing only three shots on target.