World Cup delight for the Nygren and the Celtic Swedes

Ben Nygren is heading to the World Cup Finals, alongside former Celts Carl Starfelt and Gus Lagerbielke.

Last night Sweden edged Poland out for a place in the summer finals where they will face Tunisia, Holland and Japan. A group with more than a few Celtic connections.

Sweden open up against Tunisia on June 14 with that match being played in Monterray, Mexico. There is the very real prospect of Nygren facing Sebastian Tounekti in that fixture.

The Swede’s managed by former Chelsea boss Graham Potter took the ‘back door’ Nations League route to the World Cup Finals.

Earlier this season in the actual World Cup qualifying group Sweden finished bottom of their four team group with just two points. Switzerland, Kosovo and Slovakia weren’t the most daunting opponents.

SUCCESS FOR NYGREN

Potter, after more than a year out of management was brought in specifically for the World Cup play-off route.

Victories over Ukraine and Poland have justified that move with three Celtic connections in the Starting XI against Poland.

A minute before half-time Lagerbielke put Sweden 2-1 in front but the Poles levelled 10 minutes into the second half.

Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres came up with a hat-trick against Ukraine last week, against Poland all that was needed was a goal in the 88th minute to decide the match.

Nygren returns to domestic action this weekend with Celtic facing Dundee at Dens Park.

Martin O’Neill’s side could kick off that match trailing Hearts by eight points.

Nygren hasn’t scored since netting the winner away to Aberdeen on March 4. A return to scoring would be a welcome boost to Celtic’s title hopes. In 31 SPFL appearances, nine off the bench, Nygren has scored 15 goals.

Italy and Denmark missed out in last night’s play-offs with Bosnia and Herzegovina alongside the Czech Republic taking the glory last night.

 

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