Sweden vs Poland prediction 31.03.2026 | World Cup Qualification UEFA Playoffs

Sweden head into this fixture with renewed confidence following a commanding 3-1 victory over Ukraine in the playoff semi-final, with Viktor Gyökeres scoring a hat-trick and leading the attacking line with authority. The result demonstrated Sweden’s attacking efficiency and improved tactical structure under manager Graham Potter, who has been tasked with rebuilding the national side after a disappointing qualification campaign in which they finished bottom of Group B with just two points from six matches.

Sweden will rely heavily on Gyökeres’ finishing ability and their structured midfield to control possession and dictate tempo in front of a home crowd.

Poland progressed to the final after a 2-1 comeback victory over Albania, with Robert Lewandowski scoring the equalizer and Piotr Zieliński netting the decisive goal in the second half. The performance highlighted Poland’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, particularly in high-stakes playoff matches. Poland finished second in their World Cup qualifying group behind the Netherlands and have remained relatively consistent, losing only one match during the qualifying campaign to the three-time World Cup finalists, while producing solid defensive displays and efficient attacking numbers. 

The team continues to rely on Lewandowski’s experience and goal-scoring ability, supported by Zieliński’s creativity and midfield control. Poland’s recent performances suggest a disciplined and pragmatic tactical approach, focusing on defensive stability and quick counter-attacks, which could prove effective against Sweden’s structured system.